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Sweltering temperatures reach a high of 40 degrees Celsius in Germany.

Soaring temperatures reaching 40 degrees make Germany's current day the warmest yet this year. Thunderstorms are predicted to return as well. Preparing for this potentially uncomfortable climate change weather event.

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Intense heatwave pushes temperatures in Germany up to 40 degrees Celsius.
Intense heatwave pushes temperatures in Germany up to 40 degrees Celsius.

Sweltering temperatures reach a high of 40 degrees Celsius in Germany.

Germany is gearing up for a scorching hot day on Wednesday, July 2, as the German Weather Service forecasts temperatures could reach up to 40 degrees Celsius, which would be among the hottest ever recorded in the country[1][4]. This heatwave is driven by a mass of hot air spreading from southwestern Europe, contributing to "the hottest days of the summer so far" on Tuesday and Wednesday[1].

Although the all-time record temperature in Germany of 41.2 degrees Celsius, set in July 2019 in the town of Tönisvorst in the northwest[1], might not be officially broken on Wednesday, the country is very likely to experience one of its hottest days ever, making it a historically significant heat event[1][2][4].

The risk of forest fires is particularly high in Brandenburg, Bavaria, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, and Saxony-Anhalt on Wednesday[2]. As temperatures soar, the cardiovascular system is heavily strained, particularly for people with chronic conditions[7]. Elderly individuals, those with pre-existing conditions such as dementia, cardiovascular, or lung diseases, are disproportionately affected by heat-related deaths due to impaired temperature regulation and reduced thirst response[5].

Babies and young children are also at risk during heatwaves, as they have less sweat production and are more susceptible to dehydration[6]. It is crucial to drink enough fluids, avoid staying in the sun too long, and avoid alcohol and other drugs while swimming, according to the German Lifesaving Association[3].

Meanwhile, in neighboring France, the heat is currently putting the country in a state of emergency[2]. Several heat records have been broken in Spain in recent days, with a new national heat record of 46 degrees being recorded in the southern Spanish city of El Granado[4]. In Italy, the health ministry has issued the highest heat warning level for several cities, including Rome, Milan, Bologna, and Florence[2].

In Carinthia, Austria, new regional temperature records of 38 degrees were also set[4]. As temperatures decrease after Wednesday, with Thursday being cooler, particularly in the northwest, it is expected that the risk of forest fires will significantly decrease on Thursday[2].

In the midst of this heatwave, the teachers' union calls for more commitment to heat measures in schools, such as external blinds and ventilation systems, due to the poor equipment of most school buildings against heat[2]. It is estimated that approximately 3,000 people will die from heat each year in Germany[5].

As people age, their body's temperature regulation slows down, making them more susceptible to heat-related issues. Therefore, it is essential to take precautions and stay informed during this heatwave to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all individuals.

[1] Deutsche Wetterdienst (2025). Heatwave forecast for Germany. Retrieved from https://www.dwd.de/DE/home/home.html [2] DW (2025). Germany braces for record-breaking heatwave. Retrieved from https://www.dw.com/en/germany-braces-for-record-breaking-heatwave/a-56463730 [3] German Lifesaving Association (2025). Heat safety tips. Retrieved from https://www.dlrg.de/DE/Sicherheit/Sicherheitsthemen/Wasserunfalle/Wasserunfallvermeidung/Wasserunfallvermeidung-warm-wasser/wasserunfallvermeidung-warm-wasser.html [4] The Guardian (2025). Europe bakes in heatwave, with Spain and France seeing record highs. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jul/02/europe-bakes-in-heatwave-with-spain-and-france-seeing-record-highs [5] German Society of Geriatrics (2025). Heat-related deaths in elderly population. Retrieved from https://www.dggp.de/DE/Arbeitsbereiche/Gesundheitspolitik/Gesundheitspolitische-Themen/Heisses-Wetter/Heisses-Wetter.html [6] Mayo Clinic (2021). Heat illnesses in children. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/childrens-health/in-depth/heat-illness/art-20048294 [7] American Heart Association (2021). Heat-related illnesses and heart disease. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-failure/about-heart-failure/heart-failure-and-heat-related-illnesses

  1. In North Rhine-Westphalia, where environmental-science research centers are abundant, scientists may study the impact of climate-change on extreme heat events, such as the current heatwave, and develop strategies to mitigate its effects.
  2. During this period of high temperatures, it's crucial to prioritize health-and-wellness by staying hydrated, seeking shade, and avoiding strenuous fitness-and-exercise, especially for elderly individuals with pre-existing conditions and children who are more susceptible to dehydration.
  3. While the heatwave continues, many people might consider focusing on skin-care, applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure to prevent sunburns and heat-related skin damage.
  4. Additionally, with the rising temperatures, individuals may revisit their nutrition habits and opt for cool, hydrating fruits and vegetables to maintain good health, benefiting both their bodies and the environment by choosing locally-sourced produce.

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