Germany braces for thunderstorms after heatwave

Germany is preparing for a dramatic weather change as a cold front moves in from the west, promising an end to the current late summer heatwave. Thursday is expected to be intensely hot across much of the country, with temperatures climbing between 27 and nearly 34 degrees Celsius in some regions. However, the arrival of cooler air will also bring the threat of severe thunderstorms, particularly in the western parts of the country.

As clouds increase throughout the day in western Germany, heavy thunderstorms are anticipated from the late afternoon. The German Weather Service (DWD) forecasts "strong thunderstorms with potential for severe weather" starting in the evening, extending across the western half of the country. These storms could bring dangerous conditions such as torrential rainfall, hail, and severe wind gusts.

The forecast indicates that the heavy showers and thunderstorms will continue into the night and early Friday morning across western and central Germany, with some areas potentially experiencing prolonged periods of stormy rain. The risk of severe weather is expected to persist in these regions. Meanwhile, the eastern parts of Germany are predicted to remain mostly clear and dry with scattered clouds.

This shift in weather comes just days before the official start of the meteorological autumn on Tuesday, September 1. The overnight low temperatures are expected to range between 14 and 19 degrees Celsius, offering a significant cool-down from the preceding heat. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather warnings as the conditions could become locally hazardous.