Germany is experiencing a severe heatwave, with temperatures expected to exceed 40 degrees Celsius in several parts of the country this week.
According to the German Weather Service, the heatwave is expected to peak on Wednesday, with widespread high temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius and sometimes spiking up to 41 degrees Celsius.
The heatwave will drive temperatures in the western and southern parts of Germany to over 37 degrees Celsius in daytime and 20 degrees Celsius at nighttime.
Local weather authorities have issued a heat warning, urging people to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activities, and take sun protection.
"I usually put the blinds down in my apartment, so that it does not get so hot in the room. I live in the ground floor, so it is quite effective to do so," said a resident.
"I like to swim when it is hot. Usually, I mostly swim here in this swimming pool," said a kid.
Facing the frequent high temperatures, Germany's Federal Minister for the Environment, Climate Action, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety Carsten Schneider voiced his concerns in a media interview on Monday, saying that Germany is experiencing heatwaves of a higher intensity more frequently, which experts have repeatedly warned of and poses a serious threat to vulnerable groups including children and the elderly, and animals.
He called for the climate-resilient urban planning, including planting more trees, reducing paved surfaces, and create shaded, water-retaining public spaces.
The German Weather Service predicted that the heatwave may be eased on Thursday when a cold front, moving southeastwards from the northwest, brings rain and thunderstorms to parts of the country.
Heatwave grips Germany, with temperatures expected to soar over 40 degrees Celsius
