Heat: Extreme heat in the south and west – 38.5 degrees in Kitzingen

Germany is currently grappling with extreme heat, particularly in its southern and western regions. The highest temperature recorded on Friday was 38.5 degrees Celsius in Kitzingen, Bavaria, according to the German Weather Service (DWD). Bad Kreuznach in Rhineland-Palatinate followed closely with 38.0 degrees, while Waghäusel-Kirrlach in Baden-Württemberg and Andernach in Rhineland-Palatinate registered 37.5 degrees.

These figures are preliminary, and the DWD anticipates local thunderstorms in the evening and overnight. The heatwave is expected to persist through the weekend, with a DWD spokesperson suggesting that even higher temperatures could be reached.

While Friday's temperatures were exceptionally high, they did not set new records. The highest temperature recorded on a June 19th was 39.2 degrees in Dresden in 2022. The all-time highest temperature in Germany was 41.2 degrees, measured on July 25, 2019, in Tönisvorst and Duisburg-Baerl. The highest temperature ever recorded in June was 39.6 degrees on June 30, 2019, in Bernburg, Saxony-Anhalt.

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change. The DWD highlights that vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children, pregnant individuals, and those with pre-existing health conditions, are particularly at risk during these extreme weather events. Public health advice emphasizes the importance of staying hydrated.