Heat wave in NRW: 40 degrees threaten! Health warning by Wednesday!

Heat wave in NRW: 40 degrees threaten! Health warning by Wednesday!

Ilm-Kreis, Deutschland - Summer currently holds North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) in its hot grip. On July 1, 2025, the thermometer scratches in some regions on the 40-degree mark. According to the current reports of Wa.de is the highlight of the heat. expect. On this day, an extreme heat load is predicted between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m.

What does that mean specifically for the Cologne and their surroundings? The official warning of the German Weather Service (DWD) applies not only to the cathedral city, but also to the entire Ruhr area and large parts of Westphalia. As early as Tuesday morning, temperatures of over 30 degrees were measured in Aachen, and the heat wave, which started on Monday, affects almost all of North Rhine -Westphalia.

health risks in extreme heat

The health risks due to the extreme heat should not be underestimated. The DWD warns of dangers such as headaches, exhaustion, drowsiness and circulatory problems. Older people, pregnant women and people with chronic diseases are particularly at risk. That is why it is all the more important to follow the recommendations of the DWD: drinking enough water, avoiding physical exertion and seek cooler rooms. According to the Robert Koch Institute ( rki ) Need for preventive measures increased.

For the next few days, no significant weather events such as thunderstorms or storms can be expected, which reinforces the acute effects of the heat for the moment. However, the heat wave could also lead to the determination of new temperature records on Wednesday, especially in the Cologne bay on the Lower Rhine and in the Ruhr area. The previous record for NRW is 41.2 degrees, recorded on July 25, 2019.

But after this tropical phase there is light at the end of the tunnel: from Thursday it will be significantly cool with maximum 25 to 27 degrees. In order to survive the heat, heating streak is even promised for Wednesday evening, followed by shower -like rain on Thursday.

how to prepare yourself

The DWD recommends avoiding stays in the blazing sun from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and above all to pay attention to endangered people. Here are some tips to get through the heat wave safely:

• drink water regularly - at least two liters per day!
• avoid physical exertion, especially in the hottest hours.
• care for cool interiors, use fans or air conditioning systems.
• pay attention to health changes and seek help in the event of symptoms such as dizziness or extreme fatigue.

whether the Cologne residents withdraw on the balcony at the next barbecue or chill in the shade - healthy provision pays off. Stay cool and pay attention to yourself and your neighbors!