Extreme Heat and Storms in Germany: Safety Tips for Expats

Introduction

Germany is in the grip of a serious heatwave this week, with temperatures soaring to as high as 38°C in parts of the country. At the same time, severe thunderstorms are sweeping through the northeast and are forecast to reach the southwest in the coming days. For expats and immigrants — especially those who are new to Germany and unfamiliar with how the country handles extreme weather — knowing where to find warnings and how to stay safe is essential. This guide gives you the practical information you need.

How Hot Is It and Where?

Temperatures of up to 38°C have been recorded across large parts of Germany. This level of heat is not typical for the country, and many homes and apartments in Germany — unlike in southern Europe or North America — are not equipped with air conditioning. This makes the heat particularly difficult to manage indoors. Urban areas tend to experience a "heat island" effect, where temperatures feel even higher due to concrete and asphalt absorbing heat.

At the same time, severe storms are active in the northeast and are expected to move toward the southwest. These storms can bring strong winds, heavy rain, and hail, sometimes with very little warning.

Where to Find Official Weather Warnings in Germany

Germany has a robust official weather warning system. The main source is the Deutscher Wetterdienst (DWD) — Germany's national meteorological service — available at dwd.de. The DWD issues warnings on a scale from 1 (low) to 4 (extreme), and their website and app are available in German. For English-language updates, The Local Germany and international weather apps like Weather.com or Windy also provide useful regional forecasts.

You can also set up emergency alerts on your phone. Germany uses a cell broadcast system called DE-Alert, which sends push notifications directly to your mobile phone during emergencies — no app download required. Make sure your phone settings allow these alerts.

Practical Safety Tips During the Heatwave

• Stay hydrated: Drink water regularly even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine during peak heat hours.
• Close blinds and curtains during the day: This is the most effective way to keep a room cool without air conditioning.
• Go to public cool spaces: Many German cities open public buildings, libraries, and shopping centers as cooling zones. Check your local municipality's website.
• Avoid outdoor activity between 11:00 and 16:00: This is when the sun and heat are at their strongest.
• Check on neighbors: Elderly neighbors and those with health conditions are particularly vulnerable during heatwaves.

During thunderstorms:

• Stay indoors and away from windows.
• Do not shelter under trees or in open spaces.
• If driving, reduce speed and turn on headlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I receive weather warnings in Germany on my phone?

Germany uses the DE-Alert cell broadcast system, which sends warnings automatically to your mobile phone without needing an app. Ensure your phone's emergency alert settings are enabled. You can also download the NINA app (Notfall-Informations- und Nachrichten-App), which is the official German federal emergency information app and is free.

Are there health risks I should know about during a heatwave in Germany?

Yes. Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are real risks. Symptoms of heatstroke include confusion, very high body temperature, and not sweating despite the heat. If you or someone near you shows these signs, call 112 (Germany's emergency number) immediately. People with chronic health conditions should contact their Hausarzt (general practitioner) for specific advice during extreme heat.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Extreme weather in Germany this week requires practical preparation, especially if you are in a region affected by both the heatwave and incoming storms. Take the heat seriously — many apartments in Germany are not designed for these temperatures — and make sure you know how to receive official warnings.

1. Download the NINA app for official emergency alerts in Germany.
2. Check the DWD website daily for your region's weather warning level.
3. Ensure your phone's DE-Alert cell broadcast notifications are switched on.
4. Follow local municipality announcements for cooling zones near you.

Source: The Local