The Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) has issued second-degree heat warnings for western and southern Poland as temperatures are expected to reach 32°C. This heatwave, which began Friday morning, is accompanied by severe weather alerts for thunderstorms, heavy rain, and wind gusts up to 80 km/h across the same regions.
Where are the heat warnings in effect?
According to the IMGW, the highest temperatures are concentrated in the western part of the country. Second-degree heat warnings are currently active for the Lubuskie province, the southwestern edges of West Pomerania, most of Lower Silesia, central and western parts of Greater Poland, most of Opole, and the eastern districts of Silesia. Additionally, first-degree warnings have been issued for the southern portion of Lower Silesia due to the sustained heat.
Did You Know? By 10:00 a.m. on Friday, the temperature in Słubice had already reached 28.1°C, signaling the arrival of the season’s first significant heatwave.
What are the risks beyond the heat?
The IMGW reports that the areas under heat warnings are also subject to first-degree thunderstorm alerts. Forecasters expect precipitation totals between 10 and 15 liters of water per square meter, with localized spikes reaching 20 to 35 liters. Residents in these zones should also prepare for potential hail measuring 2 to 3 cm in diameter and wind gusts that could reach 80 km/h. These alerts are scheduled to remain in effect until midnight or 2:00 a.m. on Saturday, depending on the specific location.
Expert Insight: The direct overlap between high-temperature zones and severe storm cells suggests a classic “breakdown” of the atmosphere. Meteorologically, this indicates that the intense heat is destabilizing the air mass, turning a standard summer day into a volatile event that poses risks to both property and public safety.
What is the forecast for the weekend?
The current heatwave is expected to persist through the weekend, with orange-level warnings remaining in place until 8:00 p.m. on Sunday. While Friday remains milder in the center and north—with temperatures reaching 26°C and 22°C respectively—the pattern is shifting. Analysts expect the zone of heat and storms to expand significantly on Saturday, covering larger portions of the north, south, and center. By Sunday, the heat is expected to encompass most of Poland, while storm activity will likely shift toward the central and eastern provinces.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum temperature expected during this heatwave?
The IMGW forecasts temperatures reaching up to 32°C in the western parts of the country.
How long will the current heat warnings last?
The orange-level heat warnings are currently set to remain in effect until 8:00 p.m. on Sunday.
What specific hazards are associated with the storms?
Expected hazards include heavy rainfall of up to 35 liters per square meter, hail 2-3 cm in diameter, and wind gusts reaching 80 km/h.
How are you preparing your home or workplace for the incoming temperature spike this weekend?
