Weather forecast: Up to 38 degrees: NRW expects hot days without rain

Germany's most populous state, North Rhine-Westphalia, is bracing for a significant heatwave, with temperatures expected to soar as high as 38 degrees Celsius this week. The German Weather Service (DWD) forecasts several days of hot, dry, and sunny conditions.

Wednesday is predicted to be sunny and dry, with maximum temperatures ranging from 28 degrees Celsius in eastern Westphalia to 33 degrees along the Rhine. Light to moderate winds are expected. The night into Thursday will be clear and dry, with temperatures dropping to a low of 12 to 16 degrees Celsius, potentially as low as eight degrees in valleys.

Thursday will continue the sunny trend, with temperatures climbing to between 31 and 34 degrees Celsius. Meteorologists anticipate temperatures could reach up to 36 degrees Celsius along the Rhine river. The night into Friday will remain dry, with lows between 16 and 23 degrees Celsius, especially in urban areas.

Friday is set to be the peak of the heatwave, with temperatures expected to reach 34 to 38 degrees Celsius. The DWD has indicated no rain is expected, emphasizing the dry conditions accompanying the high temperatures. Residents are advised to take precautions against the intense heat.