How Germany manages extreme heat and climate change DW 07/20/2025
Briefly

This summer in Germany witnessed intense heat waves, particularly in early July where temperatures in cities like Hamburg and Cologne reached 37 degrees Celsius, pushing close to 40 degrees. Such temperatures usually appear in early August based on past trends, alarming experts who ascribe this change to climate change. People responded by using fans and staying hydrated. Authorities are now compelled to take action for public protection during extreme heat, with the Health Ministry urging state-level initiatives and promoting the website hitzeservice.de for heat safety guidelines, particularly targeting vulnerable groups. Wildfires also arose in eastern Germany, prompting military assistance.
In early July, Hamburg and Cologne recorded temperatures soaring to 37 degrees Celsius, nearing 40 degrees, which experts attribute to climate change.
Health Ministry spokesperson Sabine Gruneberg stated that local authorities must take action and are responsible for informing residents about heat safety measures.
Residents have been urged to stay indoors during peak heat hours, with advice shared through platforms such as hitzeservice.de, particularly for vulnerable populations.
The Interior Ministry highlighted the army's readiness to assist with forest fires, particularly in Saxony and Brandenburg, utilizing helicopters for firefighting efforts.
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