Germany braces for up to 39C as heat wave peaks midweek
A new heat wave may push parts of Germany to near‑sauna temperatures, with implications for the solar eclipse, stargazing and weekend storms.
The German Weather Service has issued a warning that a fresh heat wave could drive temperatures as high as 39 °C in parts of Germany by Friday, with the most intense heat expected in the southwest and North Rhine‑Westphalia.
Forecast details
Wednesday will start with mostly sunny skies and daytime highs ranging from 20 °C in the north to 35 °C further south. Nighttime lows will sit around 19 °C in the western cities but dip to as low as 8 °C in the east, meaning a mixed bag for evening plans.
Thursday marks the real surge, with temperatures climbing to roughly 37 °C in the north‑west and southwestern regions. A report from Bild summed it up succinctly:
Sauna temperatures are approaching.
Berlin and the northeast will see milder readings near 27 °C, while coastal areas benefit from onshore breezes that keep them a few degrees cooler.
Implications for outdoor activities
The timing coincides with a total solar eclipse visible across the country from about 19:15, offering a spectacular view for millions. For those hoping to watch the event, the clear skies on Wednesday and Thursday are ideal, though the heat may make prolonged exposure uncomfortable.
Stargazers also have a window on Wednesday night to catch the Perseid meteor shower, as light winds and clear conditions are forecast. However, the drop in night temperatures in eastern regions means a warm coat may be necessary.
Looking ahead to the weekend
Friday is set to be the hottest day, with highs between 29 °C and 39 °C across most of the country, except the northern coast which stays cooler. Scattered thunderstorms are expected in the west and southwest, potentially bringing heavy rain and hail.
The pattern of warm days and isolated storms is likely to continue into the weekend, though daily maximums should ease slightly. Residents are advised to stay hydrated, limit outdoor exertion during peak heat, and keep an eye on local weather alerts.
For a broader view of the heat affecting the continent, see Europe's latest heatwave. And if you plan to watch the eclipse, check our guide on making the most of the solar eclipse in Germany.
