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Germany Enters First Major Heatwave of the Season

A high-pressure system named Gorgias is drawing hot subtropical air from northwest Africa into Germany, increasing health risks as cities open cooling measures.

Overview

  • The Deutscher Wetterdienst has issued official heat warnings covering more than 100 counties in six states, with alerts expanding across the southwest and into central regions.
  • Daytime highs will be widely above 30°C with local peaks of 36–38°C expected in the south and southwest and tropical nights likely in larger cities.
  • Forecasters warn of an elevated risk of afternoon and evening thunderstorms that could produce heavy rain, hail and strong gusts, raising flash‑flood and storm damage threats.
  • Health agencies and hospitals say vulnerable groups face serious danger, municipalities are activating public cooling (for example Cottbus’s water‑mist system) and officials urge hydration, shade and reduced exertion.
  • Models disagree on how long the hottest stretch will last, with some analyses projecting prolonged runs of 30°C+ days in southern hotspots while short‑term storm warnings remain the most reliable forecasts.