July Concludes with Heavy Rainfall Across Germany

As the month of July draws to a close, Germany is experiencing a stark contrast to the warm weather that marked the beginning of the month. Areas popular among summer tourists, including the Alpine region and the North Sea coast, are bracing for a week of persistent rain, thunderstorms, and cooler temperatures.

The German Weather Service has indicated that while storms and heavy rain are expected, conditions are not expected to reach extreme levels. Meteorologist Sonja Stöckle noted that those hoping for sunshine can look forward to a potential improvement in weather conditions by mid to late August.

In the final week of July, temperatures across the country are predicted to barely exceed 20 degrees Celsius, with some areas experiencing highs between 15 to 18 degrees Celsius during continuous rainfall. Nighttime temperatures could dip to as low as 7 or 8 degrees Celsius, particularly in regions experiencing persistent rain.

The Alpine region has been inundated with heavy rainfall since the weekend, with localized rainfall amounts reaching between 80 to 100 liters per square meter, which could lead to hazardous conditions. However, such rainfall is not uncommon in this area, and locals are generally well-prepared for these weather patterns.

For outdoor enthusiasts, particularly hikers in the Alps, the weather is far from ideal. The trails are expected to be muddy, and visibility is significantly reduced due to cloud cover. Stöckle suggested that those planning to hike should consider alternative activities, such as visiting indoor thermal spas. Snowfall is only anticipated at elevations above 2,500 meters, with only a few flakes expected due to limited visibility.

As the week progresses, the southern regions of Germany can expect overcast skies, continuous rainfall, and the possibility of thunderstorms. The only exception is the Baltic Sea area, which may experience some sunshine on Monday.

Overall, the forecast for most of Germany on Monday predicts a mix of cloud cover, occasional showers, and brief thunderstorms, but temperatures are expected to remain moderate. Northern Germany will see windy conditions with the potential for strong gusts, while areas south of the Danube may experience temperatures in the range of 15 to 18 degrees Celsius amidst continual rain. The persistent rain in the Alpine region is anticipated to ease somewhat by Tuesday.

At the North Sea, the peak of the storm is expected to occur mid-week, particularly on Wednesday, when heavy showers, thunderstorms, and prolonged periods of rain are likely. While severe winds may be observed over the water, the mainland is expected to experience only strong gusts. As the weekend approaches and the start of August arrives, the intensity of the storm is expected to diminish.

Despite the current gloomy weather, Stöckle reassured that the summer season is not over yet. Long-term forecasts indicate a return to more stable high-pressure systems by mid-August, promising more sunshine and less rainfall. This weather shift is also beneficial for the environment, providing much-needed relief from the prior heat and drought conditions.