Heat warning for Hesse as temperatures are forecast to reach 38C

The German Weather Service has issued a heat warning for Hesse and several other parts of southern Germany as a multi-day heatwave builds across the region. In Hesse, temperatures are expected to reach 30C to 35C on Thursday and rise further to 32C to 38C on Friday.

The warning applies on Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., according to the reports, and covers not only Hesse but also Baden-Württemberg, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland, parts of North Rhine-Westphalia and Bavaria. Forecasters are also warning of increasing thunderstorm and severe-weather risk later on Friday.

Health risks

Authorities are urging caution because the heat can place a heavy strain on the body, especially for older people, people with illnesses and those who need care. The warning specifically highlights the risk of strong heat stress and the possibility that vulnerable groups could be affected more severely.

The forecast comes as central Europe enters a period of hot, humid weather that is expected to remain uncomfortable for several days. In addition to the temperature spike, meteorologists are watching for showers and storms that could develop as the heat builds.

Near a June record

The expected highs in Hesse are close to the June record for Frankfurt, where 39.3C was measured on June 30, 2019. That comparison underlines how intense the current spell could become if local conditions push temperatures toward the upper end of the forecast.

The latest reports suggest the heat warning may need to be extended or expanded if conditions worsen, and that the storm risk could become more localised by Friday evening. For now, officials are focusing on heat protection and on monitoring whether additional weather alerts are issued for specific parts of Hesse.