Germany is battling a severe heatwave, with temperatures set to reach nearly 40°C over the weekend. In response, the cities of Cottbus and Erfurt have banned the lighting of candles and lanterns in cemeteries due to extreme fire risks, while several regional football associations have cancelled weekend matches, and Potsdam has shortened municipal office hours.
The ban on candles in cemeteries, announced Thursday by local authorities, is a temporary measure to prevent wildfires. Officials in both cities urged residents to understand the decision and to choose alternative ways of honoring the dead, such as placing flowers instead of open flames.
– We ask for understanding and encourage considering other forms of remembrance – said a city spokesperson for Erfurt. The ban applies to all cemeteries under municipal management until the heatwave subsides.
Football matches cancelled due to extreme heat
Several regional football associations have taken drastic steps to protect players and spectators from the scorching sun. The Berlin Football Association announced that only matches crucial for deciding relegation, promotion, or championship titles will go ahead this weekend. The Bavarian Football Association went further, cancelling approximately 4,400 junior and youth games across the region.
Other sports are also affected. The State Sports Association of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern postponed the youth sports games in Neubrandenburg, an event that was expected to draw 2,200 participants. The matches and events will be rescheduled for later in the summer.
River levels drop as heatwave continues
The prolonged heat is also affecting Germany’s waterways. According to the Tagesschau portal, the Elbe River is experiencing rapidly falling water levels. In Dresden, the water level dropped to just 64 centimeters on Thursday afternoon, prompting restrictions on boat traffic.
From Friday to Sunday, temperatures across much of Germany are forecast to hover around 40°C. Meteorologists predict that the country’s June temperature record of 39.6°C could be broken. In Potsdam, authorities shortened opening hours in some municipal offices to reduce the risk of heat-related health issues among employees and visitors.
Żródło: Polsat News, Fot. dpa
