Severe Weather Warning: Regions Facing Intense Thunderstorms

Severe weather conditions are expected to impact southern Germany, particularly on Wednesday, bringing heavy rainfall and large hailstones. The driving force behind this tumultuous weather is a low-pressure system known as Tief Tim.

The storms are forming in a hot and humid atmosphere that is conducive to the development of thunderstorms. Meteorologists have identified the regions most likely to be affected, including southeastern Baden-Württemberg, parts of Bavaria such as Schwaben and the Allgäu, as well as Upper and Lower Bavaria, and potentially the Upper Palatinate.

Residents in these areas should prepare for significant rainfall, with estimates reaching up to 40 liters per square meter in a short period. Hailstones could reach sizes of up to five centimeters, with winds capable of producing gusts reaching hurricane strength.

In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, storms have already caused damage with considerable amounts of hail reported on Tuesday evening. According to the German Weather Service (DWD), hailstones may even grow to the size of baseballs, measuring around eight centimeters, and could fall at speeds of up to 140 km/h, posing a threat to vehicles, buildings, and agriculture. There is also an increased risk of injury to individuals and animals caught outdoors without shelter.

As the day progresses, thunderstorms are anticipated to intensify in the southern regions. The warm and humid conditions will peak in areas such as Passau and Lower Bavaria, with temperatures potentially reaching 28 degrees Celsius. Heavier storms are expected particularly in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria, while a front bringing rain will stretch from Baden-Württemberg through Hessen to Thuringia and further into Brandenburg and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.

In terms of storm forecasts, the primary areas of concern are those identified earlier, while regions in the far western and northwestern parts of the country may only experience lighter showers.

Experts warn that the unstable air mass could lead to the formation of severe thunderstorms, characterized by heavy rain, large hail, and strong winds. There is even an elevated risk for tornado formation in some areas.

Looking ahead to the weekend, the weather is expected to remain variable. The DWD predicts cloudy skies and rain showers on Friday, with temperatures climbing to around 26 degrees Celsius. Winds will likely continue to be strong.

As we approach the Pentecost holiday, weather experts suggest that conditions may remain unsettled and cooler, with persistent winds from the Atlantic.