Germany's cities are racing against time to prepare for increasingly extreme heatwaves, with states like Hessen leading the charge in developing comprehensive heat protection plans. The state of Hessen became the first federal state in early 2023 to present a Heat Action Plan, following the second-warmest summer recorded since weather data began being collected. Since then, further record-breaking summers have underscored the urgency for local governments to create their own strategies to combat rising temperatures. However, even among the twelve largest cities in Hessen, many have yet to finalize such plans. For example, Kassel’s plan is still under development and is expected to be published by the end of this year. The city of Frankfurt has already introduced a detailed Heat Action Plan focused on immediate responses and preventive measures during extreme weather conditions. This plan emphasizes protecting vulnerable groups such as the elderly, sick individuals, and young children. It provides practical guidelines on reducing indoor temperatures and identifies cool spots within the city. The overarching goal of these heat protection plans is to prevent temperature-related illnesses and deaths through proactive measures. According to the Hessian Ministry of Health in Wiesbaden, particularly hot days with temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius, known as tropical nights where nighttime temperatures do not drop below 20 degrees Celsius, and prolonged heatwaves pose serious health risks. These can lead to heat exhaustion, heat cramps, heatstroke, or dehydration, which can be life-threatening. Additionally, excessive sun exposure poses a risk of skin cancer. The Hessian Heat Action Plan aims to serve as a foundation for local initiatives, encouraging measures such as creating cooling air corridors in urban areas, establishing green belts along waterways, continuously de-sealing surfaces, planting trees in previously barren spaces, and avoiding buildings with reflective facades. The Hochtaunuskreis is currently working on its own Heat Action Plan based on the Hessian model. Officials describe this as an effective tool to minimize the negative effects of heat on public health. In the district town of Bad Homburg, the CDU and SPD parties aim to improve the microclimate, increase shaded areas, and reduce “heat islands” to make the city more resilient to rising temperatures, as outlined in the new coalition agreement. Smaller towns in the Taunus region are also preparing for heat challenges. In Königstein, Climate Adaptation Manager Kosar Goldasteh introduced a guide titled "Heat Etiquette," offering tips on appropriate behavior during high temperatures. This document is available digitally via the city's website due to climate protection reasons, though a simplified printed version might be produced in larger font sizes. Public fountains are becoming a crucial resource in combating urban heat. Many cities now provide information on the locations of public drinking fountains through their websites. For instance, in Königstein, there is one fountain in the city center and three in other districts. Users can access exact locations by clicking on the "Find Fountains" link. The "Heat Etiquette" guide is only accessible online, according to Goldasteh, but a simpler version may be printed in large type. The climate adaptation strategy will also address heat issues, incorporating insights from meetings involving representatives from politics, administration, schools, and emergency services. A heat protection network aims to ensure residents look out for each other during heatwaves. Goldasteh hopes to see initial drafts by the end of August. As the pace of global warming accelerates, especially in Europe and Germany, the need for immediate action becomes ever more pressing. Environmental Minister Robert Habeck highlights the urgent situation, noting that over 12,500 people died from heat-related causes this year alone, according to estimates from the Robert Koch Institute on August 13. While some argue that constitutional changes could be necessary to elevate climate protection to a shared responsibility among the federal government and the states, others emphasize the importance of utilizing existing competencies at the state level. The challenge lies in balancing financial commitments to large-scale projects with fiscal discipline, while ensuring timely implementation of protective measures. As the threat of extreme heat continues to grow, local authorities must act swiftly to safeguard public health and resilience.
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