In summer, temperatures are higher. If temperatures reach at least 25°C during the day, it is officially termed a summer day. But at what point do we speak about heat?
From a meteorological point of view, hot days are those on which the maximum temperature is or exceeds 30°C. A heat wave is when we have at least three hot days is a row. This often comes with tropical nights, i.e. nights when temperatures don’t drop below 20°C.

So, the terms “hot days”, “heat wave” and “tropical nights” are directly related. A long-lasting heat wave with tropical nights is particularly stressful for the body and psyche.

Heat warnings

The DWD issues heat warnings when a perceived temperature of 32 °C or higher is forecast for two consecutive days. You can subscribe to the DWD’s heat warnings as an email newsletter. This way, you will be informed in good time before hot days and can prepare for them. Alternatively, you can also access the warnings via the DWD’s WarnwetterApp. These services are only available in German.