Could Germany Hit 40°C? What the 2025 Heatwave Means for You

Introduction

Germany is in the grip of a serious heatwave, and meteorologists are not ruling out temperatures approaching 40°C in certain regions. While extreme heat is not entirely new to Germany — the country recorded its all-time high of 41.2°C in 2019 — forecasts at this level remain alarming for public health authorities and for millions of residents who live in homes without air conditioning. For expats and immigrants, particularly those who have recently arrived and may not be fully familiar with local emergency systems and tenant or worker protections, this is a critical moment to get informed and prepared.

What Temperatures Are Forecast?

German meteorologists and the national weather service (Deutscher Wetterdienst, DWD) are monitoring the current system closely. Some western and southern regions — including parts of Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, Rhineland-Palatinate, and North Rhine-Westphalia — are considered most at risk of extreme readings. Urban areas tend to experience an additional heat island effect, meaning city temperatures can be several degrees higher than in surrounding rural areas.

The DWD issues heat warnings (Hitzewarnung) on a scale from level 1 (strong heat) to level 2 (extreme heat). You can check current warnings for your region at dwd.de — the site is available in German, but the warning maps are straightforward to read regardless of language level.

Health Risks at Extreme Temperatures

At temperatures above 35°C, the human body struggles to cool itself efficiently, particularly if humidity is also high. The most serious risk is heatstroke, which is a medical emergency. Symptoms include a body temperature above 40°C, confusion, cessation of sweating, rapid heartbeat, and potential loss of consciousness. If you witness these symptoms, call 112 immediately.

Heat exhaustion — an earlier and less dangerous stage — presents as heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, and nausea. Moving to a cool environment and drinking water can reverse it, but if symptoms worsen, seek medical attention.

Groups at particular risk include:

• People over 65
• Young children and infants
• Pregnant women
• People with heart, kidney, or respiratory conditions
• People taking certain medications (check with your doctor or pharmacist)

Renting in Germany During a Heatwave: What You Should Know

The vast majority of German apartments — particularly in older buildings — do not have air conditioning. This is a common shock for expats arriving from warmer countries or from places where AC is standard. Legally, landlords are not required to install cooling systems unless this was specified in the rental agreement.

However, if your building has external blinds (Außenjalousien) or shutters that are broken and your landlord refuses to repair them, you may have grounds to report this as a defect (Mangel). Contact your local Mieterverein (tenants' association) for advice — most offer affordable membership and free initial consultation.

Working in the Heat: Your Rights

German law requires employers to protect employees when workplace temperatures rise. Under the Arbeitsstättenverordnung:

• Above 26°C indoors: employers should implement protective measures (ventilation, shading, flexible hours)
• Above 30°C: employers must act proactively
• Above 35°C: the workplace is generally considered unsuitable for work

For outdoor workers, the right to shade, drinking water, and rest breaks is non-negotiable. If your employer is not complying, you can report the situation to your state's Arbeitsschutzbehörde (occupational safety authority).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I stay home from work if it is too hot?

There is no automatic legal right to stay home due to heat in Germany. However, if your indoor workplace exceeds 35°C and your employer has not taken any protective measures, you can raise a formal complaint with the Arbeitsschutzbehörde. In some cases, and with medical advice, your doctor (Arzt) may issue a sick note (Krankschreibung) if the heat poses a genuine risk to your health.

Where can I cool down for free in Germany?

Most German cities open public libraries, community centres, and some public swimming pools (Freibäder) as informal cooling spaces during heatwaves. Some municipalities have formal cooling centre programmes — check your city's official website or app for details. Public fountains are generally safe for cooling down but not always for drinking; look for a sign that says "Trinkwasser" (drinking water) before consuming.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Temperatures close to 40°C are a genuine possibility for parts of Germany this summer, and the health risks are real. The best approach is prevention: keep your home cool, stay hydrated, adjust your schedule to avoid being outdoors during the hottest hours, and know who to call in an emergency (112 for medical emergencies). Employers and landlords have legal obligations during extreme heat — do not hesitate to assert your rights if they are not being met.

Monitor the DWD heat warning map at dwd.de and follow guidance from local authorities throughout the heatwave period.

Source: DW English