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Heatwave testing German resilience as temperatures soar

Peter Oliver in Berlin

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Europe is currently being blasted by a punishing heatwave, with record-breaking temperatures affecting millions across the continent. 

In Spain and France, at least two people have died from heat-related causes, and emergency services across southern Europe are under strain as temperatures climb above 44°C in parts of Italy, Spain, and southern France. 

Germany, while not the hottest point on the map, is also feeling the pressure, both socially and economically.

Parts of southern and western Germany have recorded highs above 38°C, according to the German Weather Service (DWD). 

A man cools off in a fountain in front of Berlin Cathedral. /Lisi Niesner/Reuters
A man cools off in a fountain in front of Berlin Cathedral. /Lisi Niesner/Reuters

A man cools off in a fountain in front of Berlin Cathedral. /Lisi Niesner/Reuters

Cities including Berlin, Frankfurt, and Cologne have issued heat alerts, warning vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and those with chronic illnesses, to stay indoors during peak hours. 

In response, some schools in Baden-Württemberg and North Rhine-Westphalia have cancelled afternoon classes or sent pupils home early.

Across the country, people are doing what they can to cope with the situation. Public parks and fountains have become gathering spots for relief from the heat, while sales of fans and portable air conditioners have surged. 

Energy providers have reported a noticeable rise in electricity demand, and Deutsche Bahn has imposed speed restrictions on specific train lines due to the risk of heat-related track damage.

Beyond the public health impact, the heatwave is beginning to disrupt key sectors of the German economy. The Rhine River — a crucial route for transporting goods — has seen water levels fall to concerning lows. 

At Kaub, a key measurement point, levels have dipped below 90 centimeters, restricting the amount of cargo that ships can safely carry. 

That's pushing up transport costs and causing delays for industries reliant on river freight, including those involved in the production of chemicals, steel, and fuel.

People cool off in a fountain in front of Berlin Cathedral on a hot summer day, as a heatwave hits Berlin on Wednesday. /Lisi Niesner/Reuters
People cool off in a fountain in front of Berlin Cathedral on a hot summer day, as a heatwave hits Berlin on Wednesday. /Lisi Niesner/Reuters

People cool off in a fountain in front of Berlin Cathedral on a hot summer day, as a heatwave hits Berlin on Wednesday. /Lisi Niesner/Reuters

Farmers across Brandenburg, Saxony-Anhalt, and Lower Saxony are also raising the alarm. Prolonged high temperatures and dry conditions are placing maize and wheat crops under stress. 

Some regional agricultural associations warn yields could drop by as much as 10 to 15 per cent without timely rainfall or emergency irrigation.

Climate and economic experts are sounding the alarm over long-term impacts. 

A recent study from the IFO Institute suggests that without substantial adaptation, recurring summer heatwaves could cost the German economy billions of euros annually. 

As temperatures continue to climb, the heatwave has evolved from a weather event into a broader test of Germany's public resilience and economic preparedness for a warming world.

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