Europe heat wave triggers nearly 1,000 excess deaths in Netherlands as storms batter Germany
Severe thunderstorms with heavy rain, hail, and strong winds are expected in southern Germany today, according to the German Weather Service (DWD). The DWD has warned of potential damage from these storms, which could include heavy rainfall of up to 30 liters per square meter within an hour, hail with grains up to three centimeters in diameter, and strong gusts of wind up to 100 kilometers per hour. In other parts of Germany, less severe thunderstorms are expected, with heavy rain around 15 liters per square meter, gusty winds around 70 kilometers per hour, and small hail.
In Baden-Württemberg, heavy storms on Wednesday caused numerous emergencies, including flooded cellars, flooded streets, and a temporary power outage for around 6,000 households. In Aitrach, a 43-year-old woman suffered a minor electric shock when lightning struck while she was holding a charging phone.
Meanwhile, a heat wave continues to grip much of Europe. In Spain, temperatures are expected to reach up to 40 degrees Celsius in some areas, with the Agencia Estatal de Meteorología (AEMET) issuing warnings for high temperatures. Italy is also experiencing extreme heat, with temperatures in northern and central regions reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius, exacerbating drought conditions and threatening agricultural output.
In France, severe thunderstorms are expected, with warnings of potential flooding due to hardened soils from drought conditions. The heat wave has also led to water restrictions in parts of Ireland, with a hosepipe ban in effect for Dublin and other areas to safeguard water supplies.
In the Netherlands, the heat wave has resulted in nearly 1,000 excess deaths over the past two weeks, according to health authorities. The extreme weather conditions are expected to continue, with forecasts indicating that the heat wave will persist through next week in many regions. Meteorologists are closely monitoring the situation and providing updates as the weather patterns evolve.
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