Following record-breaking temperatures in Germany, another heatwave is coming. What can we expect?
London, United Kingdom Jul 12, 2026 ALN: Germany has recently experienced a significant heatwave, particularly in the last days of June, where temperatures soared to a record-breaking 41.5°C in Saxony-Anhalt. This extreme weather event led to severe implications for public health and safety, as well as disruptions to daily life.
Heatwaves, characterized by prolonged periods of excessively high temperatures, have become increasingly common in Europe, with Germany being no exception. The country has faced challenges such as wildfires and transportation disruptions, which have raised concerns about the impacts of climate change on weather patterns and public infrastructure.
Wildfires and cancelled transport problems - how record-breaking high temperatures hit Germany
The heatwave not only posed health risks but also created environmental hazards. Wildfires broke out in various regions, exacerbating the situation and leading to evacuations and property damage. Public transport services faced cancellations and delays as infrastructure struggled to cope with the extreme conditions. This situation highlighted the vulnerabilities of urban environments to climate-related events, prompting discussions about the need for better preparedness and adaptation strategies.
As the country faces another wave of intense heat, the question arises: how severe is it expected to be? Meteorologists are closely monitoring the weather patterns as Germany transitions into a new phase of heat.
What do forecasters predict in the next days?
Following a temporary respite characterized by cooler temperatures and rain showers, a shift is anticipated by Thursday and Friday. Meteorologists predict a significant change in weather patterns as a low-pressure system that has been influencing the weather in the eastern and northern parts of Germany moves towards Eastern Europe. Meanwhile, the Azores High, a high-pressure system, is expanding into Central Europe, leading to a rise in temperatures across the country.
Özden Terli, a meteorologist, noted that once the storm system has passed over southern Scandinavia towards the Baltic states, the current cool and changeable weather will give way to a more stable high-pressure system. This transition is expected to result in a significant rise in temperatures.
Initially, Thursday will start off cooler, but the temperatures are projected to increase throughout the day. By Friday, the German Weather Service (DWD) forecasts highs of 27°C in Berlin, with the southwest region potentially reaching around 34°C. In cities like Munich, temperatures are expected to hit 31°C, while Saarland and surrounding areas may see figures as high as 32°C.
How intense will the heatwave be?
While the hottest air will initially linger over France, forecasts suggest that higher temperatures will begin to move into Germany by the weekend. Terli explained that current weather models indicate the establishment of an "omega pattern," a meteorological phenomenon characterized by a stable high-pressure system that can lead to prolonged periods of heat. This pattern is expected to persist at least until the beginning or middle of the following week.
As the sunshine returns, temperatures are expected to rise significantly. By Saturday, maximum temperatures are projected to range between 25°C and 30°C, with localized areas in the west and southwest potentially reaching up to 34°C. Some weather models even suggest peak temperatures could soar between 37°C and 39°C, raising alarms about the potential for heat-related health issues.
Germany's official advice for how to stay safe in a heatwave
The European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts has indicated that the high-pressure system may dominate the weather until at least July 18th. While brief thunderstorms may occur in the east, the rest of Germany is expected to experience predominantly sunny and dry summer weather. Unlike the previous heatwave, the air is anticipated to remain relatively dry at first, which may make the heat feel less oppressive than during more humid conditions.
Why heatwaves in Germany are getting hotter
Meteorologist Terli emphasizes that the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves in Germany are not solely attributed to immediate weather patterns but are significantly influenced by climate change. Global warming has led to an overall rise in temperature levels, making heatwaves more severe and frequent. Hot air from southern regions becomes further heated under stable high-pressure systems, contributing to exceptionally high temperatures.
This phenomenon has become an integral part of Europe’s climate system and is expected to continue intensifying in the coming years. Terli pointed out that the current summer could see further heatwaves, although the severity of these events remains uncertain. Notably, southwest Germany is already experiencing its third heatwave of the year, a stark indicator of shifting climatic conditions.
As heatwaves become more common, they are not only reaching higher temperatures but also lasting longer than in previous decades. This trend raises concerns about public health, environmental sustainability, and the potential economic impacts on sectors such as agriculture and tourism.
IN NUMBERS - Yes, summers in Germany really are getting hotter
Data from climate studies indicate that summers in Germany have indeed been getting hotter over the years. According to various meteorological reports, average summer temperatures have risen significantly since the late 20th century. This increase has been attributed to a combination of natural climate variability and human-induced climate change, which has led to more frequent and intense heatwaves across the continent.
Understanding the implications of these changes is crucial for policymakers, urban planners, and public health officials as they develop strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change and protect public health during extreme weather events. As Germany prepares for another potentially severe heatwave, the importance of addressing climate change and its impacts has never been more urgent.
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