Highest Warning Level: DWD Warns of Extreme Heat Across Large Parts of Germany

Recommendations from the Weather Service

In addition to the heat, the DWD is also warning of elevated UV exposure. In the affected regions, UV radiation is classified as very high. The weather service recommends spending the midday hours in the shade or indoors whenever possible and drinking sufficient water.

The DWD advises paying particular attention to at-risk groups. These include older people, the chronically ill, and children. "Make sure that children are protected from the sun," is one of the weather service's specific recommendations. Sports and physical exertion outdoors should also be avoided during the hottest hours.

Strain in the Cities

In the cities, the heat affects people particularly badly, as concrete and asphalt heat up intensely and release warmth only slowly at night. Medical professionals advise keeping apartments cool during the day with closed curtains or blinds and cross-ventilating at night when outside temperatures drop.

Even beyond the direct heat warning, the summer of 2026 as a whole is proving to be warmer than average. Comparable heat waves in previous years had in some cases led to strains on the healthcare system, rail transport, and agriculture. Authorities are monitoring the developments closely.

Health Risks

Weather experts point out that nighttime temperatures in many regions will barely drop below 20 degrees. These tropical nights are particularly taxing because the body has hardly any opportunity to recover at night. Fans and cool showers can provide short-term relief.

Health ministries and aid organizations are preparing for a possible increase in heat-related emergencies. Hospitals are anticipating a rise in circulatory problems and dehydration, particularly among older patients.

Further Developments

The DWD regularly updates its warning map. Citizens can find information about the current warning situation via the app, the website, and the weather service's warning apps.

For the coming days, the DWD has announced a slight cooling – however, temperatures are expected to remain above average. Whether further warnings at the highest level will become necessary depends on further developments.