Extreme heat in Europe - Record temperatures and fears for economic impact
Record temperatures are hitting Germany, Austria and Switzerland, but a slight drop in temperatures is expected from Monday, according to forecasts. Saarbrücken in North Rhine-Westphalia set a new all-time record for Germany, with 41.3 degrees Celsius. In the south and southwest, temperatures hovered around 40 degrees, while the Federal Meteorological Service warned of "extreme heat" almost throughout the country.
Extreme weather events have become more frequent due to the climate crisis and could intensify. Data shows that days with temperatures above 30 degrees have increased significantly. Authorities recommend that vulnerable groups take protective measures, drink plenty of water and avoid physical activity outdoors. They also warn of the dangers in seas, lakes and rivers, while reminding that animals should not be left in parked cars, even for a few minutes.
The intensity and duration of heatwaves also have economic consequences, affecting productivity, causing delays, increasing energy costs and testing infrastructure. A study by Allianz Trade estimates that Germany could suffer losses of 112.5 billion euros by 2030 if heatwaves continue. The research also shows that for every degree above 30, productivity decreases by 3%.
According to experts, industries that rely on physical labor or operate outdoors are the most affected. Also, sectors such as automotive, mechanical engineering and electronics are at risk of production disruptions due to supply chain constraints.
Extreme heat also exposes infrastructure vulnerabilities. Electricity grids are strained by increased demand for cooling, while high temperatures reduce the efficiency of lines and technical systems. At the same time, low water levels in rivers limit the capacity of inland waterway transport, affecting industry and logistics.
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