Heat wave is rolling over Dresden: How to protect yourself from heat death!

Heat wave is rolling over Dresden: How to protect yourself from heat death!

Summer is approaching and with it the temperatures in Dresden are rising. On Wednesday, June 4, 2025, a heat action day took place, organized by the health department and the Dresden University Hospital (UKD). The aim of this event was to educate citizens about the health consequences of extreme heat and corresponding protective measures. Dolores Mieth from Health for Future warned urgently about the dangers of heat death and the rising temperatures that could affect more and more people due to climate change.

In 2024, the Neustadt already recorded 85 summer days and 34 hot days with temperatures above 30 degrees. This area is considered a “heat island” – the dense development and sealing pattern ensures that the heat accumulates particularly. This means that the temperature difference between the city center and the surrounding area can be up to 5 degrees. This makes it all the more important that the city has drawn up a comprehensive heat action plan to counteract heat-related stress.

Health protection in focus

The heat action plan, which is expected to be operational by summer 2026, includes a range of measures to reduce heat stress and minimize UV ​​exposure. Among other things, the city plans to publicize drinking water fountains and expand the refill campaign for free drinking water refills in participating stores. In addition, the results of thermal recordings of the heating of schoolyards and roofs are also taken into account in various projects, such as the planting of trees in schools.

Recommendations for individual heat protection are also relevant. It is recommended to drink at least 2-3 liters of water daily and avoid drinks containing alcohol and caffeine. A small but nice tip: moist towels or cold foot baths help to pleasantly regulate your body temperature. A well-ventilated apartment that is darkened during the day can also protect you from the heat. Professor Sigmar Stelzer has also called for more neighborhood help for people sensitive to heat in order to survive these times of extreme temperatures.

Forecasts and reality

The forecasts are alarming: temperatures of up to 45 degrees Celsius could become a reality in Dresden in the future, as the evaluations by RKI show. In hot weeks with average temperatures above 20 degrees, mortality rates increase, particularly among older people, highlighting the health risks of the heat. Heat-related deaths are usually the result of a combination of high temperatures and pre-existing medical conditions, which can be worsened by the stress of the heat.

The city of Dresden, supported by organizations such as Health for Future, is committed to a clear framework for action. There are increasing demands for more climate protection, adjustments in working life and the creation of cool places that can offer people a tolerable environment in the hot summer months. The measures to improve heat action plans are also crucial in order to ensure the health of residents not only during the summer months, but in the long term.