- Southwest sweating in the heat
Drink plenty, stay in the shade, ventilate at night, wear light clothing, apply sunscreen, and look out for others: These are the same tips that apply during heatwaves. Today, the sun is expected to shine brightly over the Southwest, with Baden-Württemberg potentially facing the hottest day of the year. It will also become more humid, with thunderstorms possible during the day.
Temperatures could reach up to 37 degrees in the Palatinate, feeling even hotter at times, according to the German Weather Service (DWD). In the mountains, maximum temperatures could approach the 30-degree mark. This would result in extreme heat stress. On Monday, a new annual high of 35.7 degrees was recorded in Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler in Rhineland-Palatinate, surpassing the previous record of 35.4 degrees measured in Müllheim (Breisgau-Hochschwarzwald) at the end of July.
Showers and thunderstorms that began on Monday could become stronger in the afternoon and evening, with gusty winds possible, meteorologists said. Some areas may experience more rain. On Tuesday night, rain is expected to be scattered.
Soup instead of champagne
Heatwaves pose particular health risks for the elderly, those in need of care, and people with pre-existing conditions, pregnant women, infants, children, and people with disabilities, according to the Stuttgart Health Ministry. It is important to pay attention to and support these fellow citizens as well.
In general, the ministry recommends staying indoors or in the shade during peak hours and avoiding physical exertion. Instead of alcohol and caffeine, drink water and fruit juices. Soups and water-rich fruits are also suitable for hydration. "Eat several small, light meals," the ministry advised last year.
People should use the cool nights and early mornings to ventilate their homes. During the day, windows should be shaded. Light-colored, non-restrictive cotton clothing, a hat, and sunscreen are recommended, as are nearby air-conditioned public spaces like libraries.
The Consumer should consider drinking water and fruit juices instead of alcohol and caffeine during heatwaves to stay hydrated. Extreme heat stress could occur in areas with temperatures reaching 37 degrees, particularly affecting vulnerable groups such as the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions.
