Brief cooldown in Germany: DWD announces up to 36 degrees at the weekend

Recently, Germany had already experienced heat of up to 39 degrees, as previous weather reports show. This first heatwave was subsequently followed by severe storms that, among other things, cost a man his life in Saxony, southern Germany, and Hamburg when he was struck by a falling tree.

The DWD pointed out that the upcoming heat will once again bring the risk of severe thunderstorms. Exactly where and when severe storms will occur cannot yet be conclusively stated.

For southern Germany, the meteorologists expect a particularly intense heat load. In the metropolitan areas along the Rhine and in parts of Bavaria, values are also likely to climb well above 30 degrees.

Regional differences

In the north and west of the country, the weather is overall more changeable. According to the DWD, cloud fields will pass through more frequently here, temporarily reducing solar radiation and keeping temperatures somewhat lower.

The holiday of Assumption Day on 15 August falls within the phase of the heatwave. Many people in Bavaria and the Saarland traditionally have the day off, making the weather situation particularly relevant for excursions and travel.

Tips for hot days

Marcus Wadsak also explained that the overnight minimum temperatures will drop only slowly in the coming days. In the cities, conditions will therefore remain tropically warm, making it harder for the body to recover.

The DWD recommends drinking sufficient fluids, avoiding heavy physical exertion during the midday hours, and staying in cooler indoor spaces if necessary. Older people and children are particularly at risk.

Outlook for the new week

Should the heat reach its peak at the weekend as forecast, increased severe weather danger is to be expected from the start of the new week, according to the DWD. Thunderstorms, heavy rain, and hail are then possible.

The weather situation is linked to the 2026 summer trend, which meteorologists assess as warmer than average. Climate experts see this as a pattern that has intensified in recent years.

The dpa news channel reports that the coming days are likely to be among the warmest of the summer so far. A reliable forecast regarding the duration of the heatwave will only be possible in the course of next week, according to the DWD.