Heatwave in Germany: Up to 38°C Forecast — Practical Tips for Expats

Introduction

Germany is heading into its most intense heatwave of 2025, with the national weather service forecasting temperatures up to 38°C in some regions. For many expats — especially those who moved from cooler climates — this level of heat can feel unexpected in a country not traditionally associated with Mediterranean temperatures. What makes it more challenging is that Germany's housing stock, public infrastructure, and general culture are historically not built for extreme heat: air conditioning in homes and offices is far less common than in southern Europe or North America. Understanding how to stay safe and what to expect this week is genuinely practical.

What to Expect This Week

Forecasters are predicting peak temperatures between 35°C and 38°C across large parts of Germany, particularly in the Rhine Valley, Baden-Württemberg, and parts of Bavaria and North Rhine-Westphalia. Urban areas will feel the heat most intensely due to the heat island effect — cities retain warmth from roads and buildings overnight, meaning little relief even after sunset. Some cities may experience tropical nights, defined as temperatures that do not drop below 20°C, making sleep difficult without cooling.

Public transport, particularly underground U-Bahn and S-Bahn lines, can become extremely uncomfortable during a heatwave. Many older German train carriages and station platforms have limited or no air conditioning. Delays are also possible if rail tracks are affected by the heat.

Staying Safe: Practical Advice

German health authorities consistently recommend a set of straightforward precautions during heatwaves. Drink water consistently throughout the day — at least 1.5 to 2 litres — even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol, as it accelerates dehydration. Keep your home cool by closing blinds and windows during the day and opening them in the evening when outside temperatures drop.

If you do not have air conditioning at home, public libraries, shopping centres, and some municipal cooling centres (sometimes announced by local councils during extreme heat) offer cooler environments. The Robert Koch Institut and local health authorities may issue specific guidance during prolonged heat events — check your city's official website or app.

Avoid intense outdoor physical activity between 11am and 5pm. If your job involves outdoor or physical work, German occupational health law allows employees to raise concerns about heat at work — employers have a duty of care. If you are uncertain about your rights, consult your works council (Betriebsrat) if one exists at your workplace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Germany have a formal heat warning system?

Yes. The Deutscher Wetterdienst (DWD), Germany's national weather service, issues official heat warnings at multiple levels. You can check current warnings on their website or app. Some German cities also have dedicated heatwave action plans and publish advice through local health offices (Gesundheitsamt). Signing up for DWD alerts is a simple and useful step during summer months.

What if I or someone I know feels unwell due to the heat?

Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are medical emergencies. Symptoms of heatstroke include confusion, very high body temperature, and loss of consciousness — call 112 (emergency services) immediately. For less severe symptoms like dizziness or nausea, move to a cool environment, drink water, and contact your doctor (Hausarzt) or the medical on-call service at 116 117 if your regular practice is closed. Elderly people, young children, and those with chronic illnesses are at highest risk.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Germany's heatwave this week is a real practical concern, particularly for expats in urban apartments without air conditioning. Taking basic precautions — staying hydrated, avoiding peak sun hours, and knowing when to seek medical help — can make a significant difference. Monitor DWD warnings for your specific city or region, check in on elderly or vulnerable neighbours, and be patient with public transport disruptions. This level of heat is increasingly common in Germany's changing climate, making it worth knowing how the country's systems and resources respond.

Source: The Local