Heat warning in Saxony-Anhalt: 36 degrees and threat of thunderstorms!

Heat warning in Saxony-Anhalt: 36 degrees and threat of thunderstorms!

This Sunday, hot mainland air is bringing temperatures of up to 36 degrees to Saxony-Anhalt. The German Weather Service (DWD) warns urgently about heat stress and high levels of UV radiation, which will be particularly noticeable in the heavily affected regions, such as the Altmarkkreis Salzwedel and the city of Magdeburg. This warning applies today from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., while the UV warning becomes noticeable from 10:30 a.m. and lasts until 4 p.m., especially in the Harz and Mansfeld-Südharz districts.

Even if the sun shines unwaveringly from the sky, the DWD reminds us that on such hot days the clear line between enjoying the sun and protecting yourself from overheating is often blurred. On hot days like today, it's best to stay in the shade and drink plenty of fluids. Older people, small children and people with chronic illnesses who quickly become overwhelmed in extreme heat are particularly at risk.

Tips for preventing heat damage

The DWD has set out some basic rules that have proven effective in helping you survive the heat better:

• Meiden Sie die direkte Sonne und vermeiden Sie körperliche Aktivitäten in der heißesten Zeit des Tages.
• Halten Sie Ihren Körper kühl, indem Sie genügend Flüssigkeit sowie Elektrolyte zu sich nehmen und leichte, luftige Kleidung tragen.
• Gestalten Sie Ihre Wohnung kühl, indem Sie regelmäßig lüften und direktes Sonnenlicht fernhalten.

Anyone who experiences unusual health problems such as headaches or circulatory problems should not hesitate and consult a doctor immediately. The Federal Ministry of Health points out that it is crucial to take these warnings seriously and, if necessary, seek help from third parties if you are unable to recognize the dangers yourself.

Be prepared for the storms!

However, things could get uncomfortable on Monday night. The DWD expects thunderstorms that could be accompanied by heavy rain, squalls and hail. Affected regions should prepare for localized severe weather ahead of imminent cooling expected Monday. The start of the new week will be heralded by heavily cloudy skies and local showers, with temperatures expected to be a relatively mild 25 to 28 degrees.

In order to be optimally prepared for extreme weather conditions, more and more cities and municipalities are implementing heat action plans that aim to better prepare the population. Specific recommendations for action were created that are tailored to local circumstances. These plans take into account, among other things, new urban design concepts and information for citizens on how best to behave.

Given many people's sensitivity to heat, it is really important to be well informed and prepared during such times. If your neighbors or family members are in the at-risk groups, support them where you can. In acute situations like today, it is up to us to take responsibility for each other.

For further information on the heat warning and recommendations for behavior, it is worth taking a look at the website German Weather Service and des Federal Ministry of Health.