In view of increasing global heat disasters, Germany is inadequately prepared for extreme heat events, especially so-called “heat domes”. While southern Europe is already experiencing night-time temperatures of 30 degrees and daytime highs of over 45 degrees, the German Weather Service is warning of a heatwave in Germany with temperatures of up to 40 degrees Celsius. A heat dome, in which a high-pressure zone traps the heat as if under a dome, is also becoming more likely in Central Europe as a result of climate change, but is hardly taken into account in German risk and disaster planning. According to estimates by the Robert Koch Institute, several thousand people die in Germany every year as a result of heat waves.

The health risks are underestimated, emphasizes Dr. Klaus Reinhardt, President of the German Medical Association. He calls for a better heat protection infrastructure, such as cooling vests and wearables for temperature monitoring for at-risk groups, as well as preventative care from GPs. Dr. Martin Herrmann from the German Alliance on Climate Change and Health criticizes the fact that existing heat action plans for extreme scenarios are inadequate. There is a lack of clear responsibilities and comprehensive emergency plans that include vulnerable groups such as senior citizens, the homeless, pregnant women and small children.

Experts propose targeted protection concepts, including climate-adapted medication plans, air-conditioned heat protection rooms and the comprehensive provision of cooling aids. A recent study led by Prof. Clemens Becker from the Geriatric Centre at Heidelberg University Hospital emphasizes the urgency of coordinated action by the federal, state and local governments. The researchers call for extreme heatwaves to be defined as natural disasters in order to enable measures such as crisis teams, work bans or evacuations. Interdepartmental cooperation between health, interior and environmental departments as well as disaster control authorities is essential.

The study, published in the Journal of Gerontology and Geriatrics, analyzes international experiences with heat dome and derives fields of action for Germany. Prof. Becker warns: “A heat dome is a real danger. If you don’t act now, you risk human lives.” Experts are calling for a social debate and concrete steps to prevent heat-related deaths, as the effects of climate change are already being felt.

Original Paper:

Heat dome in Germany and how well we are prepared for it | Journal of Gerontology and Geriatrics

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