Germany Heatwave 2025: What Expats Need to Know to Stay Safe

Introduction

Germany has been hit by a significant heatwave, with temperatures reaching up to 38.5°C — the highest recorded in northern Bavaria, followed by parts of Rhineland-Palatinate. While no national record was broken, the heat was felt across the entire country on Friday, making it one of the hottest days of 2025 so far. For expats and immigrants living in Germany, extreme heat can bring unexpected challenges: from understanding your rights as a worker in hot conditions, to navigating health risks if you are not used to Germany's typically moderate climate. Evening thunderstorms brought some disruption to transport and public life. Here is what you need to know to stay safe and informed.

How the Heatwave Affects Daily Life in Germany

Germany is not traditionally a country built for extreme heat. Many apartments, offices, and public buildings lack air conditioning, which is far less common here than in southern Europe or North America. During a heatwave, this can make living and working conditions genuinely uncomfortable — and in some cases, dangerous.

Public transport can also be affected. Train tracks, in particular, can warp under extreme heat, leading to delays or route changes on Deutsche Bahn and regional rail services. If you commute by train or S-Bahn, check the DB Navigator app or your local transport provider's website before travelling on hot days.

The evening thunderstorms that followed the peak heat on Friday are also worth noting. Severe storms (known as Unwetter in German) can cause flash flooding, falling trees, and power cuts. Apps like Warnwetter from the German weather service DWD (Deutscher Wetterdienst) provide real-time alerts and are highly recommended.

Your Rights as a Worker During Extreme Heat

One of the most practical questions expats ask during a heatwave is: what are my rights at work? Germany does not have a specific legal maximum workplace temperature, but the Arbeitsstättenverordnung (workplace regulation) requires employers to take action when indoor temperatures exceed 26°C, and strongly recommends measures above 30°C.

These measures can include:

• Providing fans or mobile air conditioning units
• Allowing more frequent breaks
• Offering cold drinks
• Adjusting working hours to cooler parts of the day

Above 35°C indoors, a workplace is generally considered unfit for work, and your employer is expected to find a solution. If you feel your employer is not taking appropriate steps, you can contact your works council (Betriebsrat) if one exists, or seek advice from a trade union.

Workers in outdoor jobs — construction, landscaping, delivery — are particularly vulnerable. If you work outdoors, make sure you have access to shade, water, and rest periods, which your employer is obliged to provide.

Health Tips for Surviving the Heat in Germany

If you have recently moved to Germany from a warmer country, you might assume you are well-prepared for heat. However, German summers can be deceptively dangerous precisely because the infrastructure is not designed for it. Here are key health recommendations:

• Hydrate constantly: Drink at least 2-3 litres of water per day, even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Avoid peak sun hours: Stay indoors or in shade between 12:00 and 16:00.
• Check on vulnerable neighbours: Elderly residents and young children are at particular risk.
• Know the signs of heat stroke: Confusion, lack of sweating despite heat, very high body temperature, and loss of consciousness are emergencies. Call 112 immediately.
• Pharmacies (Apotheken) can offer advice on rehydration salts and other heat-related products without a prescription.

If you have a Krankenversicherung (which is mandatory in Germany), all medically necessary treatment related to heat illness is covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my employer send me home if the office is too hot?

Germany does not have a single law that automatically allows you to leave work due to heat, but employers are legally required to ensure a safe working environment. If indoor temperatures exceed 35°C, the workspace is generally considered unsuitable. Speak to your employer or Betriebsrat if you are concerned.

Are there official heat warnings I should follow?

Yes. The Deutscher Wetterdienst (DWD) issues official heat warnings through its Warnwetter app and website (dwd.de). Local authorities may also issue specific guidance. These warnings are free and available in German; the app has some English support.

What should I do if there is a thunderstorm after the heat?

Stay indoors, away from windows. Avoid using electrical appliances connected to the mains. If you are outside, do not shelter under trees. Check your local transport provider's app for delays. In case of flooding, call 112 for emergency services.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent in Germany, and knowing how to navigate them is increasingly important for expats and immigrants. Download the DWD Warnwetter app, know your workplace rights, stay hydrated, and keep an eye on official guidance during extreme weather events. If you have a health concern related to the heat, your Krankenversicherung covers you — do not hesitate to visit a doctor or call 116 117 (the non-emergency medical helpline).

Source: Tagesschau