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Heat wave over Saxony-Anhalt: threatens 40 degrees on Wednesday!
The Altmarkkreis Salzwedel is facing extreme temperatures of up to 40 degrees and weather warnings on the hottest day of the year.
Heat wave over Saxony-Anhalt: threatens 40 degrees on Wednesday!
After a thundery start to the week, we are now facing a heatwave that could be considered the hottest of the year. The German Weather Service expected temperatures over 38 degrees on Wednesday, locally even up to 40 degrees are possible. The regions in the Harz district and the Altmark are particularly affected, where gusts of strength 2 on the four-stage scale are also expected.
While meteorologists prepare for the upcoming record highs, there are concerns about health given the intense heat. The tropical nights that accompany us during this time bring night temperatures over 20 degrees. In urban areas, vulnerable groups such as the elderly and the chronically ill need to protect themselves particularly from the consequences of high temperatures. Statistics show that around 28,000 heat deaths are recorded in Europe every year, and the trend is rising.
A change in the weather is in sight
The heat wave begins on Wednesday and will be accompanied by a change in the weather on Thursday, which will bring us a few clouds and possibly rain. Thunderstorms and temperatures between 20 and 17 degrees are expected for Thursday night. On Friday the weather will be mixed but also clear, with temperatures peaking at 21 degrees. On Saturday, the people of Cologne can finally look forward to mid-summer temperatures again, which will reach up to 30 degrees, before Sunday brings similar temperatures.
A look at the weather situation gives an idea of why the heat wave is so extreme. Stable high pressure ensures that cooler air masses are blocked and instead dry heat from North Africa hits the region. At the beginning of July, many regions in Germany reported temperatures above 35 degrees. These climatic conditions are not new: recent years have already made it clear to us that climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of such heat waves.
Heat wave and its consequences
The definition of a heat wave is easy to explain: at least three consecutive days above 30 degrees, without a day below 25 degrees. And so it's no coincidence that in some places the 40 degree mark is already exceeded. The Weather Service even reports that various cities in Germany have broken the annual temperature record.
Given this background, it is particularly important to protect yourself well in extreme heat. Water temperatures in the Mediterranean are higher than ever before, and drinking water supplies must also meet the increased demands. Tips for staying safe in high heat include avoiding direct sunlight, drinking plenty of fluids and keeping your home cool. Especially in urban areas, where mortality is higher during heat waves, people should pay attention to their neighbors and those at particular risk.
In summary, it can be said that the next period will be characterized by extreme heat. If you prepare for the heat in a timely manner and are well prepared, you will hopefully be able to survive the coming days better and also be able to enjoy the sunny side of the weather.