Heat in Germany: We are not powerless – a guest article

Germany has been talking about the heat for days. But once again, there's a sense of confusion about what exactly needs to be done. The focus is on ourselves: What can I do for myself? And what about those around me? But it's also about how should the recommendations for action be understood? How can they best be implemented – as individuals, but also as a society?

One thing is clear: heat is increasing in intensity, duration, and frequency. The picture is made even more complex by the fact that heat is not just air temperature. It results from a combination of humidity, wind movement, and sun exposure—a "cocktail" that is further influenced by weather conditions, activity levels, clothing, and behavior. Added to this are pollution from pollen, forest fires, and summer smog (such as ozone).

But there's also good news: We know a great deal about heat, especially how it affects people and what consequences it has. These range from discomfort and reduced performance to an increase in hospital admissions and doctor visits to additional heat-related deaths. We also have functioning heat warning systems and heat action plans. So there's no excuse and no room for complaining. Rather, there are many ways to prepare or take action as a victim.

We are all affected by the heat – some more, some less. It's not just those at risk, but also employees, whether they work outdoors or indoors. The time of day also plays a role. There are numerous information materials and behavioral recommendations available – sometimes even too many. The good news: There are simple tips and effective measures – and I'm not talking about heat action plans, which overwhelm many people.

It is quite easy to summarize what you can do as an individual:

1. Register for heat warnings (for example at www.hitzewarnungen.de ) and take them seriously.
2. Drink enough .
3. Cool your home by only ventilating when it is cooler outside than inside.
4. Avoid direct sunlight . If you must go outside, stay in the shade. Trees provide the best protection; buildings can also provide shade.
5. Avoid physical exertion during the hottest hours of the day . If exercise is necessary, be active early in the morning or in the evening. Pay attention to ozone levels in the afternoon.
6. Pay attention to your diet : The lighter the food, the less work your body has to do to digest it, and the less heat it requires. Salads are also good sources of water.
7. Take care of your fellow human beings : Older people or those with pre-existing medical conditions are particularly at risk – ensure mutual support.

But it's no longer just about personal recommendations and measures. Those responsible and decision-makers are also needed. I'm aware that there are hardly any personnel and hardly any financial resources available. Nevertheless, measures must be taken to reduce the enormous strain on the human body. All organ systems are affected. The psychological consequences of climate change and the direct impact of heat must not be neglected either.

A sweaty summer in Germany, and many are longing for cooler temperatures again. But why do people perceive temperatures so differently? An expert explains.

Socially disadvantaged population groups often lack access to air conditioning or cannot easily pay an unusually high electricity bill. Urgent action is needed here. Existing services such as climate-related consultations with doctors or information materials should be better utilized and communicated in a targeted manner. Administrations can adapt existing measures to be "heat-relevant" and implement them quickly – including involving staff.

There's no need for expensive solutions. We should prioritize measures that can be implemented quickly.

Of course, we also need cities with a high quality of life. We often think that more greenery in cities is needed when it's hot, and that this will solve everything. But ultimately, three factors are important:

1. More shade from trees with broad crowns , ideally in combination with suitable space design.
2. Long-trunked trees to promote ventilation and better transport air pollutants.
3. Vertical facades can evaporate and thus contribute to cooling.

These factors should be taken into account during planning and construction – not only urban and landscape planners, but also architects play an important role here.

In general, it's important to be vigilant during heat warnings and even during more moderate temperatures – especially when humidity is high or nighttime temperatures are low, allowing you to cool down. Adapt your behavior to the situation – avoid the midday sun, only exercise in parks with lots of trees when it's cooler; older people need more time for outdoor walks.

Climate change, and especially extreme heat and heat waves, are no longer just hype; they have long since become reality. Our goal should be not only to reduce heat-related mortality, but also to ensure a good quality of life in the long term. We cannot rely solely on short-term measures; it is equally essential to address the root causes of climate change – climate protection and adaptation are inextricably linked.