Germany, Switzerland: High temperatures forecast to persist across southwestern and western Germany and much of Switzerland through at least Aug. 1

High temperatures are forecast across much of southwestern and western Germany and north-central, northern, southern and western Switzerland through at least Aug. 1. Temperatures of up to 36 C (97 F) are possible across parts of the affected area in the coming days.

As of July 29, the German Meteorological Service (DWD) has issued extreme heat warnings (the highest level on a two-tier scale) across parts of southern, southwestern, and western Baden-Wurttemberg State and heat warnings over parts of northern, southern, and western Baden-Wurttember, far southwestern Bavaria, central, southern, and western North Rhine-Westphalia, and southwestern Rhineland-Palatinate and across Saarland states.

Meteo Swiss has issued orange heatwave warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale) across parts of Ticino, Valais, and Vaid cantons and yellow heatwave warnings across northern and parts of north-central and western Switzerland.

Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

The high temperatures may result in increased energy and water demand and a heightened risk of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

The extended period of oppressive heat and dry conditions may produce ideal circumstances for wildfire growth throughout the affected area. Heatwaves also pose a threat to vulnerable groups - such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with respiratory illnesses - due to the increased possibility of heat stroke or heat exhaustion during prolonged exposure to high temperatures. These health risks could also extend to relatively healthy individuals during significant heatwave events.

Very high temperatures may warp rail tracks and force passenger and freight trains to operate at reduced speeds. Road surface damage is also possible, and overheated vehicles may worsen traffic problems in urban areas where congestion is already a problem. Commercial trucking disruptions might occur as very high temperatures stress vehicles, making tire blowouts more common. Major flight disruptions are unlikely, but general aviation disruptions are possible, and some airfreight carriers could reduce cargo loads. High temperatures could lead to an increased demand for electricity, which might trigger localized brownouts or blackouts, exacerbating hazardous conditions when air conditioning is no longer possible.