Germany braces for extreme heatwave with record temperatures this week

Germany is bracing for a week of extreme heat, with temperatures set to soar across much of the country. Forecasters warn of risks to health and the economy as vulnerable groups face heightened dangers from the sweltering conditions. Western and southwestern regions could see highs of 38°C (100°F) by Friday. Elsewhere, most areas will experience temperatures between 30 and 35°C (86–95°F). Only northern and coastal parts of the country are expected to stay cooler, with readings of 24 to 29°C (75–84°F).

The heatwave is already taking a financial toll. Each hot day costs the German economy hundreds of millions of euros, with heat-related illnesses and accidents leading to 76,500 lost workdays and a €431 million bill for businesses. Meanwhile, the Southside Festival in Neuhausen ob Eck will welcome around 60,000 people this weekend. Organisers are offering free drinking water, extra shaded areas, and sunscreen dispensers to help attendees cope with the heat.

In Berlin, activists plan to stage a protest swim in the Spree River. The event aims to push for official permission to swim in the city’s urban waterways. Extreme heat poses serious risks to health and livelihoods, particularly for older adults and those without permanent housing. The economic impact is also significant, with businesses already feeling the strain. Authorities and event organisers are taking steps to mitigate the effects as temperatures remain high.