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Storms in North Rhine-Westphalia: Thunderstorms, heavy rain and risk of flooding are imminent!
Weather warning for North Rhine-Westphalia: Hot day, heavy thunderstorms and heavy rain expected. Danger of flooding in several districts.
Storms in North Rhine-Westphalia: Thunderstorms, heavy rain and risk of flooding are imminent!
Today, June 14, 2025, the people of Cologne will experience the hottest day of the year with temperatures climbing up to 34 degrees. But the joy about the summer heat could quickly turn into concern: The German Weather Service (DWD) has issued a severe weather warning for Cologne and the surrounding areas. This warning will last until 4:30 p.m. and includes not only Cologne, but also cities such as Essen, Duisburg and Mönchengladbach. The first thunderstorm cells are already on the way and are noticeable over the Rhine. According to [wa.de].
From the afternoon onwards the situation becomes tense as the southwesterly winds bring warm, humid air, which offers ideal weather for thunderstorms. The DWD describes that heavy rain with amounts of up to 40 liters per square meter, combined with hurricane-like gusts of up to 110 km/h, could lead to dangerous situations. The areas in the Hochsauerlandkreis, Siegen-Wittgenstein district and the region around Cologne in particular should be prepared for areas at risk of flooding. These meteorological conditions should not be underestimated and one should prepare for local flooding.
Effects of extreme weather conditions
The weather situation is not just a short-term phenomenon. Climate change, the main cause of such extreme weather events, is currently leading to an increase in heat waves and heavy rain. A report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change shows that Earth's surface temperature is rising faster than ever before. This means that extreme weather events are not only becoming more likely, but also more intense, which poses a serious threat to regions like North Rhine-Westphalia. Once again it is recalled that significant **heavy rain** has now become up to 9 times more likely, while the maximum amount of precipitation has increased by up to 19 percent in a short period of time, as the WWF reports.
The forecast for tomorrow, Sunday, looks similarly challenging. Temperatures of just 21 to 24 degrees are expected there, combined with thunderstorms that could bring heavy rain for several hours. The weather is not expected to calm until Sunday evening when the influence of high pressure becomes noticeable, but that does not mean the danger is over. On Monday night, temperatures in the Eifel could drop to 8 degrees, while the other areas will have a mild night.
Preparation and precautions
In view of this worsening situation, it is advisable to rethink outdoor activities and take proactive measures. Residents should keep themselves informed about weather updates and be particularly prepared for possible flooding. The rainfall, which can locally reach more than 50 liters per square meter, is not only a statistical danger but also poses a serious threat to infrastructure.
In summary, Cologne is not only confronted with summer heat today, but is also facing an impending storm front. The thunderstorm cells coming from France and Belgium could lead to unpredictable proportions. Stay safe and heed the DWD warnings, because there is something in the air - and it's not just the summer heat.