Germany Heatwave 2025: Up to 39°C and Severe Storm Warnings

Introduction

Germany is in the grip of yet another intense heatwave in the summer of 2025, just weeks after the country broke temperature records. Forecasters at the German Weather Service (Deutscher Wetterdienst, DWD) are predicting temperatures of up to 39°C by Thursday, making this one of the most significant heat events of the year. Alongside the extreme heat, the DWD has issued warnings for severe thunderstorms — a common but dangerous combination in German summers. For expats, especially those who have recently arrived from cooler climates or are not yet familiar with Germany's emergency alert systems, understanding what to expect and how to prepare is essential.

How Dangerous Is This Heatwave?

Temperatures of 39°C are exceptional by German standards. While southern European countries regularly see such figures, Germany's urban infrastructure — including older apartment buildings with no air conditioning — is less adapted to extreme heat. This means the health risk is real, particularly for elderly people, young children, outdoor workers, and people with pre-existing health conditions.

The DWD's warning system operates on a colour-coded scale. Severe thunderstorm warnings (often yellow or orange) can escalate quickly. Storms following heatwaves can bring heavy rain, hail, and strong gusts within minutes, causing flash flooding in low-lying streets and disrupting public transport.

Expats who have registered on Germany's NINA warning app (Notfall-Informations- und Nachrichten-App) will receive official alerts directly to their phones. If you have not installed it yet, now is a good time.

Practical Tips for Staying Safe During the Heat

German summers can catch newcomers off guard. Here are concrete steps to protect yourself:

• Keep your flat cool: Close blinds and shutters during the day, open windows at night when temperatures drop. Most German apartments rely on this passive cooling method.
• Stay hydrated: Drink water consistently throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine during peak heat hours.
• Limit outdoor exposure: The hottest part of the day is typically between 12:00 and 16:00. Schedule errands, exercise, or outdoor activities for early morning or evening.
• Check on neighbours: Germany has a strong culture of community care (Nachbarschaftshilfe). If you have elderly neighbours, a quick check-in can make a real difference.
• Workplace rights: If you work outdoors or in a poorly ventilated space, German law (Arbeitsstättenverordnung) requires employers to take protective measures during extreme heat. This can include providing water, rest breaks, and shade.

Understanding German Storm Warnings

One of the trickier aspects of German weather for expats is understanding how the warning system works and what to do when a severe storm is incoming.

The DWD issues warnings through multiple channels: its own website and app (DWD WarnWetter), the NINA app, and often via local radio. Warnings are graded from level 1 (weak) to level 4 (extreme). Thunderstorm warnings at level 3 or 4 should be taken very seriously.

During a severe thunderstorm:

• Avoid open areas, lone trees, and bodies of water.
• If you are cycling or on a motorbike, find shelter immediately.
• Move your car away from trees if possible — falling branches are a major cause of storm damage in Germany.
• Avoid using landline phones or handling electrical appliances if lightning is nearby.

Public transport (S-Bahn, U-Bahn, buses) may be delayed or suspended during extreme weather. Check your local transport provider's app for real-time updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my Krankenversicherung cover heat-related illness?

Yes. If you experience heat stroke, severe dehydration, or any other heat-related medical emergency, your statutory health insurance (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung) covers treatment. Call 112 for emergencies or 116 117 for non-emergency medical advice (the Ärztlicher Bereitschaftsdienst, available 24/7).

What is the NINA app and how do I set it up?

NINA (Notfall-Informations- und Nachrichten-App) is Germany's official emergency alert app, available free on iOS and Android. After downloading, you select your location (your city or district) and will receive automatic alerts for severe weather, floods, or other emergencies. It is available in German, but the alerts are clear and straightforward even with basic language skills.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Extreme heat followed by violent storms is becoming a recurring pattern in German summers. Being prepared is not alarmist — it is practical. Install the NINA and DWD WarnWetter apps, know your workplace rights during heat events, and take basic precautions to keep your home and body cool. If you have family members or flatmates who are vulnerable, make a simple check-in plan. Germany has strong public health infrastructure; use it.

Source: Tagesschau / Deutscher Wetterdienst (DWD)