Germany braces for intense heat as temperatures soar
The German Weather Service (DWD) forecasts highs of around 37 degrees, with only the northern coast expected to be slightly cooler. The heatwave is predicted to intensify on Thursday, potentially reaching 38 degrees.
On Tuesday, the south-western state of Baden-Württemberg recorded some of the highest temperatures, with 35.4 degrees measured near the French border.
Meteorologists stressed that the peak of the heatwave is still ahead.
The DWD has warned of "intense heat" moving into northern Germany on Wednesday, spreading to the eastern regions by Thursday.
Such extreme temperatures pose serious health risks, particularly for elderly people, those with chronic illnesses, and workers without access to air-conditioned workplaces.
Experts say many hospitals and nursing homes in Germany are ill-equipped to cope with the heat.
Henriette Neumeyer, deputy head of the German Hospital Federation (DKG), told the RND media group that most hospitals lack proper air conditioning systems due to years of underinvestment. "This puts a strain on both patients and employees," she said. Currently, many hospitals rely on simpler measures such as shading and fans.
The Hospital Federation is calling for a multi-year investment programme of €31 billion ($36.2 billion) to renovate hospitals with climate-friendly technologies.
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