Heat warning for Berlin: How to protect yourself from the extreme heat!

Heat warning for Berlin: How to protect yourself from the extreme heat!

On August 12, 2025, the German Weather Service (DWD) issued a heat warning for Berlin. The forecast shows impending severe heat stress, which is expected to continue in the coming days. In response to this warning, City Councilor for Health Uwe Brockhausen and medical officer Patrick Larscheid warned of the health risks that can be associated with the high temperatures.

Many people are at risk, especially in the current situation. High temperatures can cause serious health problems such as dizziness, headaches, fatigue, nausea and even vomiting. In extreme cases, extreme heat can be life-threatening. According to gesund.bund.de, heat waves and very hot summers have become increasingly common in Germany since the turn of the millennium. A worrying statistic shows that around 8,000 people died due to heat in the summer of 2018.

Vulnerable groups and preventive measures

In Germany, an increase in hot days is expected in the next few decades due to climate change, which particularly affects older people, pregnant women, children and people with chronic pre-existing conditions, such as [rki.de]. Effective heat protection therefore requires intensive monitoring and the provision of reliable information about health risks. Exchange between different ministries, authorities and institutions is crucial.

The health authorities therefore recommend several measures to protect yourself from the heat. These include:

• Vermeidung von direkter Sonneneinstrahlung und Aufenthalt im Schatten.
• Regelmäßige Flüssigkeitsaufnahme, insbesondere Wasser, und kühlende Bäder.
• Das Halten der Wohnräume kühl durch Lüften, wenn die Außentemperatur niedriger ist, sowie das Schützen vor direkter Sonneneinstrahlung.

Electrolytes such as sodium and magnesium, which are of great importance for nerve and muscle function as well as fluid and energy balance, are also important. Lack of fluids and electrolytes can lead to further health problems, which is why a balanced diet and adjusting your daily routine are advisable.

General health advice

According to gesund.bund.de, it is crucial to pay attention to your own body when it is hot. Signs of heat damage include feeling unwell, circulatory problems and, in the worst case, loss of consciousness. It is therefore essential to prepare accordingly and take measures to minimize the health risks.

Further information about preventative measures and protection from heat can be found on the website of the Reinickendorf Health Department: Reinickendorf Health Department.