Erfurt under heat stress: yellow card in the heat check 2025!

Erfurt under heat stress: yellow card in the heat check 2025!

Weimar, Deutschland - The summer temperatures not only bring sunshine, but also a serious challenge with it: extreme heat. In this context, German Environmental Aid (DUH) published its annual analysis, the "Hitze-Check 2025", and the results draw a worrying picture. Especially in Erfurt, which reaches the highest value in Thuringia with a heat-affair index of 15.89, the load from heat waves can be felt. As the thueringen24 is reported, the average surface temperature of the city is between 2021 and 2024 at a remarkable 35 degrees Celsius.

A look at the neighboring cities like Gera (Index 14.41), Weimar (14.39) and Jena (14.38) shows that they too have to deal with average temperatures of 34 degrees Celsius. The problem should not be underestimated, because over 12 million people in German cities are exposed to extreme heat loads, as the analysis of the DUH shows. In Erfurt, the sealing of the areas is highest at almost 45%, which also tightens the situation. Jena and Weimar follow 37%each. In order to counteract the increased temperatures, the DUH demands statutory minimum requirements for more green areas.

urban development measures against the heat

The Thuringian state government and the municipalities have now put the dangers of the heat on the agenda. A climate pact that was created in cooperation with the municipalities was extended, with 27 million euros being made available for climate protection investments. Such measures are required, because around 3,000 people die in Germany every year in the consequences of extreme heat.

A "heat phone" has already been set up in Erfurt to offer people with great warmth. In addition, the city plans to set up further drinking fountains and to inform the population about the urban fountains. These initiatives are intended to ensure that the citizens are optimally protected during heat waves.

commitment in Jena and Gera

also Jena takes the challenges seriously and plans a support network for older people living alone during extreme heat periods. Gera, on the other hand, has launched a municipal heat action plan, while a nationwide heat action plan should be available by the end of the year. These concerted measures are crucial to reduce the heat load and improve the quality of life of the residents.

The current analysis not only shows the negative aspects. In contrast, cities like Hattingen and Gummersbach have better and have a lower heat load - an encouraging perspective that shows that there are also positive examples of dealing with urban heat problems. According to Spectrum , structural changes in the cities, such as more greening and water areas, can also contribute to reducing the heat load.