- Summer, sun, mud bath - heat harms man and beast
Summer in Hessen: The German Weather Service (DWD) warned on Tuesday about extreme heat stress with temperatures feeling above 38°C. Although it will still be hot in the coming days, temperatures are expected to be slightly lower: On this Wednesday, high temperatures of 28 to 32°C are forecast. In the evenings, there is a possibility of strong thunderstorms with severe weather potential. Feels-like temperatures are calculated as an early warning for heat stress on the cardiovascular system, with the human heat balance being modeled.
Hesse's Health Minister Diana Stolz (CDU) appeals to citizens to adapt their behavior to the situation: "Stay in cool rooms as much as possible, avoid physical activities, and open windows especially at cooler times, for example at night and in the early morning, to ventilate." One should drink enough and pay attention to balancing salt loss.
Elderly people and children are particularly affected by heat stress. Care facilities for the elderly and disabled have been urged by care oversight authorities to pay extra attention to protecting those in their care.
Elephants wallow in mud
Unlike many people, some animal species at the Kronberger Opel-Zoo are enjoying the heat, according to a spokesperson. The Kattas, a lemur species from Madagascar, are lying with their arms and legs stretched out in the sun, while the South African penguins are swimming around joyfully in the water.
The elephants are also dealing with the summer temperatures in their own way: they are rolling around in the mud and smearing it all over their backs. This helps them cool down and protects their skin from the sun and insects, explains the spokesperson.
The keepers at the Opel-Zoo did not interfere with the natural behavior of the animals. Animal species that are less tolerant of the sun sought out shady places and rested.
Clear view of the starry sky
The clear sky on Monday evening attracted many stargazers to the Great Feldberg in the Taunus. From there, the numerous shooting stars caused by the annual Perseids could be observed particularly well. According to police reports, there were countless visitors, and parking spaces were correspondingly full.
Summer weather continues
This week will remain summery, with the heat letting up a bit. On Thursday, the German Weather Service expects 26 to 30°C in Hesse, and on Friday, 27 to 32°C. On Wednesday, more and more clouds are expected to roll in, and strong thunderstorms are likely. On Thursday and Friday, it will then remain mostly dry again.
The Commission, in adherence to the regulations, might adopt implementing acts to outline the specific application rules for this Heat Stress Regulation. Responsible care providers should closely follow these acts to enhance heat protection measures for vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and children.
