Germany's Health Ministry offers heatwave and storm safety tips for the North

As temperatures climb in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany's Ministry of Health is urging residents to adapt their behavior to protect themselves from the heat and potential severe weather. The ministry issued recommendations emphasizing hydration, diet, and activity levels to mitigate health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups.

“

It is recommended to adapt behavior to the high temperatures.

Officials advise drinking at least two to three liters of fluid throughout the day to compensate for sweat loss. Light meals are recommended, preferably several small portions with high water content. The ministry cautioned against consuming coffee, heavily sweetened beverages, and alcohol. Physical activities should be postponed to the cooler morning or evening hours.

“

Sufficient hydration should be maintained: According to the ministry, at least two to three liters of fluid should be consumed throughout the day to compensate for higher water loss through sweating.

For those spending time outdoors, the advice includes seeking shade, wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, and using sun hats, caps, and sunglasses. Applying sunscreen is also recommended. To maintain cool indoor environments, residents are advised to ventilate homes only in the early morning or late at night, keeping windows and doors closed during the day. Lowering blinds, shutters, or curtains can further reduce solar heat gain.

“

Physical activities should be postponed to the cooler morning or evening hours due to the high temperatures, the Ministry of Health advises.

The ministry also issued a stern warning against leaving people or animals unattended in parked vehicles, as temperatures inside can rise rapidly. Meteorologists predict summer-like conditions with temperatures reaching 28 to 32 degrees Celsius in Hamburg and Schleswig-Holstein by the end of the week, accompanied by an increasing risk of showers and thunderstorms.

“

The Health Ministry also urgently warns against leaving people or animals in parked cars, as temperatures can rise sharply during the day.