Sky's peak of extreme heat nears.
Germany Braces for Continued Heatwave, Thunderstorm Risk, and Tropical Nights
Germany is currently experiencing a late August heatwave, with temperatures reaching or exceeding the mid-20s degrees Celsius, typical for this time of year in the country. According to the German Weather Service (DWD), this weather pattern is expected to persist through the weekend, with an increased risk of thunderstorms and potential tropical nights in some areas.
The peak of the heatwave is expected to occur mid-week, with almost the entire country basking in abundant sunshine on Wednesday. However, scattered cumulus clouds will occur during the day in the north and northwest, as well as in the mountains.
Meteorologist Jacqueline Kernn from the DWD advises that those who spend a long time outdoors should consider suitable sun protection. Regular fluid intake is also recommended during prolonged heat.
The risk of thunderstorms increases, especially towards the weekend, as atmospheric instability rises with the hot air. Thunderstorm risks are more notable in western and northern parts of neighboring countries like Ukraine, which often correlates with similar regional patterns extending into Germany. On Wednesday, there is an increased risk of heavy thunderstorms in the eastern Bavarian uplands and directly at the Alps. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are not ruled out in the mountains on Thursday. Locally, there can be heavy rain, hail, and gusty winds in scattered showers and thunderstorms towards the end of the week.
Tropical nights (nights with temperatures not dropping below 20°C) are possible during a heatwave, especially in urban areas and in the southern parts of Germany, where temperatures remain high overnight. Isolated tropical nights are expected in urban areas until Friday, as nights become increasingly warmer.
The forecast for Hamburg, a typical northern city, around this period shows fair weather with temperatures about 25°C but does not explicitly mention thunderstorms or tropical nights on those specific days, suggesting regional variability within Germany.
Meteorologists define tropical nights as those where temperatures do not drop below 20 degrees Celsius at night. Prolonged heat can cause problems for sensitive individuals, so it's important to stay hydrated and seek shade when possible.
In summary, Germany is experiencing a late August heatwave with daytime highs in the mid-20s Celsius or above, increasing thunderstorm potential towards the weekend, and a chance of tropical nights especially in southern or urban areas. However, localized forecasts (like Hamburg) may differ somewhat, with less thunderstorm risk and moderate nights.
