Overview
- The Deutscher Wetterdienst has issued consecutive heat warnings for large parts of Germany, including 'extreme heat' alerts in the south and southwest, and cautioned that nights will stay warm with limited relief.
- Meteorological models diverge on the coming peak but several runs show local highs approaching or exceeding 40°C later in the week, while other runs do not, leaving the record‑breaking risk uncertain.
- The heat already produced acute impacts over the weekend: a lightning strike at a sport festival in Rastatt injured nine people, and heat‑related pavement damage forced lane closures on the A13 and A1 motorways.
- The DWD also warns of severe thunderstorms with lightning, hail and heavy rain that can cause power cuts, event evacuations and flash flooding, while high temperatures raise wildfire and strain risks for transport and care facilities.
- Authorities urge people to stay hydrated, protect the elderly and those with health problems, and prepare for a possible easing only around June 30 if current model signals prove correct.