Central European heat wave threatens crops and livestock

A prolonged heat wave and drought across Germany, Austria and Switzerland have led to record temperatures, severe water shortages and major agricultural losses. In Germany, lettuce growers in the Nuremberg region harvest as early as 04:30 a.m. and spray water on the heads to prevent sunburn, while maize and grain yields in the Saarland are projected at only 70‑80 % of normal. Cattle farms in Baden‑Württemberg face the prospect of slaughtering animals because pastures are dry and feed costs have risen sharply.

In Austria, dairy farmer Josef Handl reports up to 100 % loss of maize and 90 % loss of grain, prompting calls for a national disaster fund for farmers. Swiss farmer Pirmin Adler uses agroforestry – planting thousands of shrubs and trees – to provide shade, fodder and moisture for his herd, mitigating the impact of the drought. The situation has sparked criticism of EU organic regulations that require livestock to graze on pasture, which many German and Austrian farms cannot meet under current conditions.

Authorities and farmer organisations are urging governments to adopt emergency measures, improve water management and reconsider agricultural policies as the heat wave continues into the summer.