The City of Jena is preparing for extreme heat:

The city of Jena is preparing for an exceptionally intense heat wave. Temperatures well above 35 degrees are expected in the coming days, and current forecasts indicate that highs could reach over 40 degrees this weekend. The German Weather Service is warning of severe to, in some cases, extreme heat stress.

Heat is not only unpleasant but can also place a serious strain on the body. Older adults, infants, and young children, people with chronic illnesses, and those who work outdoors or are physically active are particularly at risk. The city of Jena therefore asks everyone to look out for one another in the coming days.

Jena’s Advantage: Taking Advantage of Cool Nights

Unlike many densely built-up cities, Jena often benefits from a reliable nighttime cooling effect. Its valley location allows cool air to flow in from the surrounding area. For this reason, apartments and houses should be thoroughly ventilated during the night and early morning hours. During the day, closed windows, roller shades, curtains, and other shading measures help keep the heat out for as long as possible.

Avoid the Sun – Take UV Protection Seriously

In addition to the heat, UV radiation levels are currently very high. The Federal Office for Radiation Protection recommends avoiding direct sunlight as much as possible, especially around noon. Clothing, hats, and sunglasses provide the most effective protection. Sunscreen supplements this protection but does not replace it. Children, in particular, should stay in the shade as much as possible between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Avoid sports and physical activities

Physical activities and sports should be avoided as much as possible to prevent the risk of overheating. This applies especially to vulnerable groups and children.

Do not leave anyone in the car

Children, pets, or people in need of assistance should never be left unattended in a vehicle. Even at relatively mild outdoor temperatures, the interior can heat up rapidly due to sunlight and reach temperatures that are hazardous to health. Even slightly open windows do not prevent this effect.

Take Advantage of Free Services

Public drinking fountains are available at several locations throughout the city. They provide free drinking water and help replenish fluids lost on hot days. The free sunscreen dispensers at Jena’s outdoor swimming pools are also available again. This service is provided jointly by the Health Department and Jenaer Bäder GmbH.

Cooling Off Along the Saale Riverbank

Those who prefer to spend time outdoors will often find more pleasant conditions along the Saale River—and especially in Paradiespark—than on heavily heated streets and squares. The proximity to the water, along with large shaded areas, provides noticeable relief on hot days in many places.

Wildfire Risk Rises Significantly

The ongoing drought and high temperatures are simultaneously increasing the risk of wildfires. Jena and the surrounding area are currently at wildfire danger level 4. The city therefore asks residents to exercise special caution in forests, meadows, and green spaces. Open fires and smoking are prohibited in the forest. Public campfire sites and barbecue areas are closed. Discarded cigarette butts, disposable grills, or hot vehicle parts can also ignite dry vegetation.

Extreme caution is advised when barbecuing outside the forest. Barbecuing should only take place where it is expressly permitted and can be done safely: at a sufficient distance from trees, shrubs, dry grass, and other flammable materials, and on a fire-resistant surface. Barbecuing near forests, on dry meadows, or in areas with dense vegetation is strongly discouraged.

Vehicles should not be parked on dry grass or unpaved surfaces, as hot exhaust systems or catalytic converters can ignite dry plant material.

Anyone who notices smoke or fire should immediately dial the emergency number 112. It is important to provide as accurate a description of the location as possible, for example, using signposted emergency points, prominent paths, buildings, intersections, or GPS coordinates.

Fire Department Bolsters Medical Emergency Services in Response to the Situation

The Jena Fire Department is preparing medical emergency services for the extremely hot weekend, tailoring its response to the situation. This includes increased vigilance for heat-related emergencies as well as adjusted equipment and operational planning. The goal is to be able to provide quick and effective assistance in cases of circulatory problems, heat-related illnesses, or other medical emergencies.

The city is also in communication with event organizers regarding major events this weekend. According to current plans, the fire department will support the Paradiestriathlon and the Jena FORSTival by providing, among other things, additional water supplies—such as water basins and drinking water stations. This is intended to ensure the events are as well-protected as possible under these special conditions.

Visitors are asked to be well prepared: bring plenty of water, use sunscreen, wear a hat, take breaks in the shade, and seek help early if you feel unwell. Event organizers and emergency responders are continuously monitoring the situation.

Key tips at a glance:

• Drink regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty
• Schedule physical activities for the morning or evening hours whenever possible
• avoid the midday sun
• Wear light clothing and a hat
• Ventilate at night and early in the morning
• Keep windows closed during the day and shade the rooms
• Look out for older adults, children, and people with health conditions
• Use drinking fountains, outdoor pools, and shaded areas
• Do not light open fires or smoke in the woods
• Do not discard cigarette butts
• If you see smoke or a fire, call 112 immediately

The city of Jena is monitoring the situation continuously and asks that you follow the latest advisories from the city, the fire department, ThüringenForst, the German Weather Service, and event organizers.
If you spend the coming days being considerate of yourself and others, you can safely enjoy the sunny side of summer.