Germany braces for severe weather as heat warnings and thunderstorms hit the west

Extreme heat and violent thunderstorms struck western Germany over the past 24 hours, halting transit, disrupting power, and upending daily routines. The German Weather Service confirmed dangerous temperature spikes as fast-moving convective cells unleashed heavy downpours, hail, and localized wind damage across densely populated cities and rural corridors alike.

Commuters faced immediate gridlock as regional rail operators suspended services to clear waterlogged tracks and scattered debris. Municipal emergency crews are restoring electricity to thousands of affected households and clearing overwhelmed drainage systems. Hospitals have activated backup cooling for at-risk patients, while school districts in several states adjusted schedules to limit outdoor exposure.