Heat Wave: 40 degrees expected in Berlin

Berlin and Brandenburg are set to experience the hottest days of the year so far. According to the German Weather Service (DWD), temperatures could reach up to 40 degrees.

Thursday will start with plenty of sunshine and just a few clouds. Temperatures will rise to 32 to 36 degrees. It will cool off somewhat overnight into Friday, with temperatures dropping to 19 to 13 degrees. On Friday, the sunny and dry weather will continue. Highs will reach 33 degrees, and in southern Brandenburg, temperatures could even reach up to 37 degrees. On Saturday, the DWD expects high temperatures of 37 to 40 degrees. In the evening, however, a thunderstorm could bring a brief cooling.

Peak temperatures expected in the late afternoon

At this time of year, daily highs are expected in the late afternoon or early evening, between 5 and 6 p.m. This is due to the long days and the resulting prolonged exposure to sunlight, explained Stefan Rubach, a meteorologist with the German Weather Service (DWD). “And then it takes forever for the temperature to slowly cool down until we drop below 30 degrees.” The lows are reached only briefly, around sunrise.

UV Index Very High for Berlin and Brandenburg

According to the Federal Office for Radiation Protection, the UV index for the Berlin-Brandenburg region is expected to be around 7 to 8—that is, high to very high. The scale ranges from 1 to 11+. A very high UV index means that you should definitely seek shade during the day. Protective clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must.

Lakes, churches, and shopping centers offer a chance to cool off

Berlin’s outdoor pools and swimming lakes offer a chance to cool off. The Kühle-Orte-Karte (Cool Spots Map) shows public drinking fountains and places to take refuge in the city, including churches, libraries, neighborhood centers, and city halls. Medical care is not available at these locations. Cinemas and shopping centers are usually air-conditioned; it’s also more bearable in the shade of large trees and by or in the water.