Bavaria braces for heatwave with temperatures up to 36°C, rising fire risk

Residents of Bavaria can expect a return to summer heat this weekend, with forecasts predicting abundant sunshine and temperatures soaring as high as 36 degrees Celsius in some regions. The German Weather Service (DWD) anticipates clear skies across most of the state on Saturday, with only scattered clouds possible over the Alps and the Bavarian Forest.

Temperatures on Saturday are expected to range from 26 to 33 degrees Celsius, with slightly cooler conditions around 26 degrees in Franconia and up to 33 degrees along the Danube. Overnight, temperatures will drop to a more comfortable 9 to 16 degrees Celsius, offering a respite from the daytime heat.

Sunday is forecast to continue the sunny trend, with temperatures reaching up to 34 degrees Celsius in northern Bavaria and between 27 and 32 degrees in the south. The heat is expected to intensify slightly on Monday, with highs potentially reaching 36 degrees Celsius in Lower Franconia. Nights will remain clear in many areas, though urban centers may experience milder temperatures.

However, the dry weather also brings a significant increase in the risk of forest fires. The DWD has issued warnings for Franconia, the Upper Palatinate, and Lower Bavaria, indicating a high overall risk. Authorities are urging extreme caution in and around forests, as even small ignition sources could spark dangerous fires. Air observations have been ordered for Saturday, Sunday, and Monday in response to the heightened danger.