Phoenix 24
The north will remain cooler as regional contrasts deepen.
BERLIN, GERMANY — July 2026. Southern and southwestern Germany are preparing for another period of extreme heat, with daytime temperatures expected to exceed 35°C in several cities this weekend. Some forecasting models indicate that local temperatures could reach 38°C on Sunday. The episode will not affect the entire country equally.
A persistent omega-shaped high-pressure system is expected to maintain the heat dome over parts of Europe until approximately July 14. Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria and the Rhine-Main region will face the highest temperatures, while Stuttgart and Munich are expected to return above 30°C during the weekend. Frankfurt could also experience tropical nights in which temperatures remain unusually high after sunset.
Conditions will be considerably milder in northern Germany. Hamburg may receive occasional rain, while Berlin and coastal regions are expected to remain closer to 20°C. Meteorologists therefore describe the event as a concentrated regional heat episode rather than a nationwide heatwave.
Prolonged dryness has increased the risk of forest fires across southern Germany, where brief storms have failed to restore moisture to fields and woodland. Authorities are also monitoring roads after extreme temperatures in late June damaged sections of highway pavement. Heavy holiday traffic could further complicate travel as several federal states begin their summer break.
Forecasts suggest that lower-pressure systems may bring thunderstorms and some relief after July 15, although their timing remains uncertain. Until then, southern Germany is expected to remain hot, dry and vulnerable to fire and infrastructure disruption.
Germany’s latest heat emergency will be regional—but potentially severe.