Berlin hits record 39.9 degrees Celsius as heatwave grips city

Berlin sweltered through a record-breaking heatwave this weekend, with temperatures soaring to 39.9 degrees Celsius on Saturday evening, according to preliminary data from the German Weather Service (DWD). This marks the highest temperature ever recorded in the city since weather records began.

The intense heat proved to be a significant burden for residents. The Berlin Fire Brigade responded to more than 2,000 emergency calls on Saturday alone, with ambulance services frequently dispatched for dizziness and circulatory problems. Tragically, at least two people died in swimming accidents in open waters.

Public swimming pools experienced overwhelming demand, with ticket sales halted at times due to capacity limits. Long queues formed outside the pools, and not everyone seeking relief could be admitted. In an effort to provide some respite, police deployed water cannons in various parts of the city, including near the Brandenburg Gate, to spray cooling water on the public.

Many streets were unusually quiet as people sought refuge indoors or at the few open pools. Numerous events were canceled in advance due to the extreme weather. Popular outdoor locations like Tempelhof Field and the Park am Gleisdreieck appeared deserted, especially on Saturday.

Despite the oppressive heat, some public gatherings proceeded. Approximately 3,000 people attended a demonstration against proposed social welfare reforms, according to organizers. Additionally, Fridays For Future called for a last-minute protest on Sunday evening regarding the heatwave and the climate crisis.

Concerts by Bruno Mars and the Berlin Philharmonic also took place, though the latter shortened their performance due to approaching thunderstorms. For the Bruno Mars concerts, rules were relaxed to allow fans to bring in larger non-alcoholic beverages. Thunderstorms on Saturday evening brought brief rain and wind to western parts of the city, offering temporary relief but also prompting 27 weather-related emergency responses. In Brandenburg, a new heat record of 40.8 degrees Celsius was measured in Baruth.