German heat wave forecast raises alarm over possible 45‑°C temperatures
The German Weather Service (DWD) and several international weather models warn that a new heat wave is imminent across Germany and much of Europe. Model runs predict peak temperatures of 40 °C to 45 °C in parts of Bavaria, Baden‑Württemberg, Saxony‑Anhalt and other regions, with the GFS model even showing isolated values up to 46 °C. Record‑breaking temperatures were already observed in June 2026, when 41.3 °C and 41.8 °C were measured in Saarbrücken‑Burbach and Drewitz, respectively.
The heat is already affecting agriculture: wheat, winter rapeseed and corn harvests in Baden‑Württemberg face regional yield losses, while the Landesbauernverband warns of higher production costs but does not expect consumer price spikes yet. Economic analyses estimate that a single day over 30 °C costs the German economy roughly €430 million, with cumulative damages from the June wave already at €6.3 billion. Public‑health officials stress the risk to vulnerable groups; projects such as HiLSA in Saxony‑Anhalt are testing protection measures for the elderly and chronically ill. Cities like Waltrop are drafting heat‑action plans, adding shaded green spaces and water features to urban areas.
Authorities advise citizens to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activity during peak heat, and follow local alerts as the situation develops.