Heat wave is rolling over Germany: up to 40 degrees and risk of thunderstorms!

Heat wave is rolling over Germany: up to 40 degrees and risk of thunderstorms!

The heat wave is rolling over Germany and is bringing alarming temperatures with it! Today, July 1, 2025, the thermometers are reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius in many regions. According to the German Weather Service (DWD), a heat warning is in full swing warning of the health risks of these extreme temperatures. Hot air masses from the south are the cause of this unbearable heat, which was already noticeable in the west and southwest of the country on Monday, June 30th.

It becomes particularly dangerous at night when temperatures drop only slightly to around 20 degrees Celsius. According to the forecasts, highs of between 31 and 38 degrees Celsius will be reached on Tuesday, while temperatures of 40 degrees Celsius are even possible locally on Wednesday. However, the heat remains somewhat milder in the mountains and on the coast, where temperatures remain below 30 degrees Celsius. The DWD counts North Rhine-Westphalia and Baden-Württemberg in particular as the most affected regions, where the highest warning level for heat has already been declared.

Risks and Recommendations

With this high level of exposure, the risk of thunderstorms and storms, including heavy rain and hail, also increases. DWD meteorologist Nico Bauer even expects potential all-time records, but not a Germany-wide record of 41.2 degrees. This heat stress is particularly dangerous for health, especially for older people, pregnant women, children and people with chronic illnesses. These groups should pay particular attention to themselves and avoid extreme heat, drink enough fluids and keep indoor spaces cool in order to prevent health problems, according to the recommendations of the Robert Koch Institute.

But what has been the situation in the last few days? In June 2025, the average temperature in Germany was 3.1 degrees above the reference value of 15.4 degrees, and precipitation was almost a third less than usual at 61 liters per square meter. These climatic conditions require good monitoring and effective heat protection, as the Robert Koch Institute explains. Collaborative efforts at various levels are necessary so that all relevant authorities can respond well to such heatwaves.

Looking ahead

A cold front is expected to the north and northwest on Thursday, July 3, which could bring strong thunderstorms to the southeast. Highs between Main and Oder will then be between 30 and 35 degrees Celsius, while temperatures of almost 30 degrees are forecast on the Upper Rhine on Friday, July 4th. Overall, the heat trend for the coming days shows a worrying picture, which is also confirmed by Hitzewarnings.de.

Everyone is urgently called upon to find out about the current heat warnings and to adapt their own activities to the weather conditions. Even if the temperatures are at a high at the moment, it is important not to lose sight of your own health.