The summer heat is returning to Germany. The German Weather Service (DWD) said it was getting warmer almost every day, with temperatures expected to peak at the weekend with temperatures of up to 37 degrees.
The first tropical night this year falls on Sunday night with temperatures above 20 degrees. However, according to the forecast, it will not be hot for long. Meteorologist Sebastian Schappert explained that, therefore, it is probably not possible to talk about a classic heat wave.
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For a heat wave, the temperature must be above 30 degrees for several days and not drop below 20 degrees at night.
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Heat in Spain |
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Spain is currently suffering from extreme heat. In Seville and Córdoba, the temperature will rise to 43 degrees. According to a report from the newspaper “El País”, heat waves are intensifying in Spain. They started earlier, last longer, temperatures are higher, and the affected parts of the country are getting larger. Experts explain this with climate changes caused by human activity. |
Temperatures in Berlin are expected to reach 35C on Saturday and 37C on Sunday over the weekend. Daytime sunlight is said to be 16 hours and the chance of rain is very low.
In the heat “Acute danger to life”.
“When the heat warning value of DWD is reached, there can be an acute danger to life,” the Nuremberg Health Department said in a press release. DWD issues a warning if the predicted early afternoon temperature is at least 32 degrees.
Particularly vulnerable risk groups are the elderly, chronically ill and young children – must adjust their behavior at declared high temperatures. “Even at 26 degrees Celsius, the body reacts with increased sweating and impaired blood circulation,” writes the Nuremberg health department.
Chronic heat exposure can also lead to skin rashes, calf cramps, and leg swelling. Cardiovascular diseases may worsen or recur. Typical symptoms here are dizziness, headaches, exhaustion and drowsiness.
Health risks can be reduced by taking the following measures:
- Find the coldest shade possible
- Drink more than usual
- Do not strain yourself physically
- As a precaution, discuss with your family doctor how to take medication in these temperatures
- Whenever possible, drink drinks containing minerals (for example, diluted juices)
- Eat easily digestible food (salads, fruits, vegetables)
- Wear light clothing that protects against sunburn
- Wear a hat that can prevent heat stroke
Heat in Germany: the warmest years since 1881
The impact on our health is also related to climate change. Today, we are experiencing man-made climate change, including rising temperatures, heat waves, droughts, and heavy rains. 2020 was one of the warmest years since meteorological records began in 1881. Nine of the ten warmest years ever recorded in Germany have occurred in the 21st century.
Pros and cons of sunlight
Sunlight is important for the human body. Most of our vitamin D needs are met by sunlight. This is necessary for good bone metabolism and calcium balance.
In addition, in the sun, the body releases more endorphins – hormones of happiness. However, sunlight also contains ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This negatively affects our health.
Sooner or later, sunburn, eye inflammation, or allergic reactions (for example, sun allergy) will occur. The risk of developing skin cancer also increases, and the skin ages faster. Artificial ultraviolet radiation, as in solariums, has the same consequences. (from dpa)