Germany Records All-Time Heat High
Germany has recorded a new all-time national temperature high as a severe European heatwave moved east, bringing extreme heat warnings, travel disruption and growing public health concerns across the region.
Germany Heatwave Sets New Temperature Record
Germany recorded a provisional national high of 41.5 degrees Celsius on Saturday at Drewitz in eastern Germany, according to the national weather service. The reading surpassed the previous record of 41.3 degrees Celsius, which had been set a day earlier in Saarbrucken.
Authorities issued extreme heat warnings for most parts of the country and urged residents to conserve water. Weather forecasters said temperatures were expected to remain above 40 degrees Celsius in parts of Germany before easing with thunderstorms.
Europe Heatwave Disrupts Travel And Events
The heatwave has disrupted transport, public services and major events across Europe. German rail operator Deutsche Bahn allowed passengers to cancel long-distance bookings without charge, citing heat-related pressure on tracks, signals and overhead wires.
The Ironman European Championship in Frankfurt also shortened parts of the cycling and running routes due to the extreme conditions. Public service providers warned of risks to infrastructure, including roads, rail lines and power systems.
Record Temperatures Spread Across Europe
Several European countries have reported record or near-record temperatures during the heatwave. The Czech Republic recorded 40.6 degrees Celsius, while Denmark registered its hottest day on record at 37 degrees Celsius.
The United Kingdom, France, Italy and Switzerland also reported unusually high June temperatures. France has seen deaths linked to the heat, while Italy issued red alerts for several major cities including Rome, Milan, Turin, Venice and Florence.
Meteorologists said the heatwave was driven by a weather pattern known as an omega block, which traps hot air over large areas for extended periods.
