Heat Wave in Germany: What Expats Need to Know This May

Introduction

A powerful heat wave has settled over large parts of Western Europe, and Germany is feeling the effects. Temperatures climbed above 30°C in many regions, with Regensburg recording the country's peak at 34°C. While France and the United Kingdom have already broken May temperature records, Germany has so far stayed just below historic highs for the month. For expats — especially those who moved here from countries with cooler climates or who are still getting used to German summers — this kind of heat can come as a surprise. German homes, public transport, and offices are typically not built with air conditioning in mind, making it important to know how to protect yourself and your household.

How Hot Is It and Where?

The current heat wave is part of a broader high-pressure system affecting Western Europe. In Germany, the warmest areas during this event have been in Bavaria and parts of the Rhine valley, where temperatures have consistently exceeded 30°C. Regensburg topped the national charts at 34°C. Northern and coastal regions have remained somewhat cooler, benefiting from sea breezes and more cloud cover.

Meteorologists note that while this is an intense early-summer heat event, Germany's all-time May record has not been broken during this wave. That said, sustained temperatures above 30°C are enough to pose real health risks, particularly for children, elderly people, and anyone doing physical work outdoors.

Health Risks and Who Is Most Vulnerable

Heat-related illness is a genuine risk when temperatures stay high, especially over several consecutive days. The main conditions to watch for are:

• Heat exhaustion: Heavy sweating, weakness, cold or pale skin, nausea. Move to a cool place, drink water, apply cool cloths.
• Heatstroke: High body temperature (above 39°C), hot and red skin, rapid pulse, possible confusion. This is a medical emergency — call 112 immediately.
• Dehydration: Especially common in people who are active outdoors or who forget to drink enough water during the day.

Groups at higher risk include infants and young children, people over 65, pregnant women, outdoor workers, athletes, and people with chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease or diabetes. If you or someone you know falls into one of these categories, take extra precautions during peak heat hours (roughly 11:00–18:00).

Practical Tips for Staying Cool in Germany

German apartments and houses are often well-insulated for cold winters, which means they can trap heat in summer. Here are some concrete steps to manage the heat:

• Keep windows closed during the day when outside air is hotter than inside, and open them at night to let cool air in. This is a common German technique known as Querlüftung (cross-ventilation) and it works well in the early morning and late evening.
• Use blinds or shutters (Rollläden) during the hottest part of the day. Many German buildings have exterior shutters precisely for this purpose — use them.
• Stay hydrated: Drink water consistently throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and sugary drinks, which accelerate dehydration.
• Seek out public cool spaces: Libraries, shopping centres, and some public pools (Freibäder) offer relief. Many cities also open cooling centres for vulnerable residents during extreme heat.
• Check on neighbours: If you live near elderly or isolated people, a quick knock on the door or a phone call can make a real difference.
• Adapt your commute: If you use public transport, carry water and choose less crowded trains or trams where possible. Some U-Bahn and S-Bahn lines can become very hot during heat events.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is tap water safe to drink in Germany during a heat wave?

Yes. German tap water (Leitungswasser) meets very high safety standards and is safe to drink. During a heat wave, it is one of the best and most affordable ways to stay hydrated. You can also ask for tap water at most restaurants, though some may charge a small fee.

What should I do if I or someone I'm with shows signs of heatstroke?

Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Call the emergency number 112 immediately. While waiting for help, move the person to a cool or shaded area, remove excess clothing, and apply cool (not ice-cold) water to the skin. Do not give water to someone who is unconscious or confused.

Are there any official health advisories I should follow?

The Robert Koch-Institut (RKI) and local health authorities (Gesundheitsamt) publish guidance during heat events. You can also check the German Weather Service (Deutscher Wetterdienst, DWD) at dwd.de for real-time temperature forecasts and official heat warnings.

Conclusion and Next Steps

The current heat wave is a reminder that German summers can be more intense than many expats expect, and that preparation matters. Check weather forecasts regularly via the DWD app or website, adapt your daily schedule around the hottest hours, and make sure your home is set up to stay cool. If you have children, elderly family members, or housemates who are at risk, take a few minutes today to ensure they have access to water, shade, and a cool space. The heat is forecast to continue for several more days, so building good habits now will help you get through it safely.

Source: tagesschau