Saarland heat wave persists with temperatures reaching 35°C

A prolonged heat wave is sweeping the German state of Saarland, with daytime temperatures expected to stay between 31 °C and 36 °C throughout the week. Low‑lying areas such as the Saartal and Merzig are seeing peaks of up to 35 °C, while higher terrain remains cooler at around 28 °C. The extreme heat is driven by a southerly flow of hot Saharan air that has created an “Omega‑level” atmospheric ridge, trapping warmth over the region.

Meteorologists warn that rising humidity will make conditions feel even more oppressive, especially for older adults, children and those with pre‑existing health conditions. The German Weather Service (DWD) advises people to avoid prolonged sun exposure during midday, stay hydrated, and limit strenuous activities to early morning or evening hours. The combination of intense heat and dry vegetation also raises the risk of wildfires, and isolated thunderstorms with strong rain, wind gusts or hail are possible from Monday afternoon onward, potentially moving eastward toward the Rhein‑Main area.

Authorities have issued heat‑related health alerts and are urging the public to keep pets and children out of parked cars and to monitor local fire‑danger warnings.