Extreme Heat in Germany This Week: What You Need to Know

Introduction

Germany is heading into a serious heatwave, with forecasters using the phrase 'sauna temperatures' to describe conditions expected later this week — particularly in North Rhine-Westphalia and the southwest of the country. For expats who may not be used to German summers, or who are simply new to the city and haven't yet figured out which apartments, parks, or public spaces offer relief, this kind of heat can be genuinely dangerous. Here is a practical breakdown of what to expect and how to stay safe.

Where and When Will It Be Hottest?

The most intense heat is forecast for the end of the week and into the weekend. North Rhine-Westphalia — home to Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Dortmund — and the southwestern states, including Baden-Württemberg and parts of Rhineland-Palatinate, are expected to bear the brunt of the temperatures.

Earlier in the week, a solar eclipse on Wednesday evening will provide a brief moment of interest, but temperatures will already be climbing. By Thursday and Friday, conditions are expected to feel oppressive, especially in urban areas where the 'heat island' effect makes cities several degrees warmer than surrounding countryside.

Health Risks and Who Is Most Vulnerable

Extreme heat is a genuine public health concern. The groups most at risk include elderly people, young children, pregnant women, outdoor workers, and anyone with a pre-existing health condition — particularly heart or respiratory issues. Expats who work in construction, agriculture, delivery, or other outdoor sectors should be especially careful.

Common heat-related health problems include dehydration, heat exhaustion, and in severe cases, heatstroke. Symptoms to watch for include heavy sweating, weakness, fast or weak pulse, nausea, and confusion. If you or someone around you shows signs of heatstroke — very high body temperature, hot and dry skin, rapid pulse — call 112 immediately.

Practical Tips for Getting Through the Heat

German homes, especially older apartment buildings, are often not built with air conditioning. Unlike in some countries, AC units are not standard in most flats. Here are practical steps to manage:

• Keep windows and shutters closed during the day. Open them in the evening and early morning when outside air is cooler.
• Drink water consistently, even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine, which dehydrate you faster.
• Use public cooling spaces. Many German cities open public buildings — libraries, shopping centres, museums — as unofficial cooling refuges during heatwaves.
• Limit outdoor activity between 11:00 and 16:00, when UV radiation and temperatures peak.
• Wear light, loose clothing and use sun protection if you are outdoors.
• Check on neighbours, especially elderly ones who may be isolated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Germany have official heat warnings I should follow?

Yes. The Deutscher Wetterdienst (DWD), Germany's national weather service, issues official heat warnings that are published on their website and app. The warnings are colour-coded by severity. During an active warning, local authorities may also issue specific guidance about public spaces, water access, or school and workplace adjustments.

Can I claim sick leave if extreme heat makes me unwell at work?

If heat causes a genuine health problem — such as heat exhaustion diagnosed by a doctor — you can receive a sick note (Arbeitsunfähigkeitsbescheinigung) and take sick leave under normal German employment rules. Your employer cannot require you to work if you are medically certified as unfit. If you work outdoors, your employer also has a legal duty of care to provide measures like shade, water, and rest breaks during extreme heat.

Conclusion and Next Steps

This week's heat is a reminder that summers in Germany are becoming more intense. Keep an eye on the DWD forecast at dwd.de, make sure you have water at home, and check in with anyone around you who might be vulnerable. If you are new to Germany, take the heat seriously — local infrastructure is not always set up to handle these conditions, and it is better to be cautious.

Source: The Local Germany