Persistent heatwave: Switzerland has been sweating for weeks
For several weeks, Switzerland has been experiencing an exceptionally hot summer. The entire country is under a so-called blocked high-pressure system, which is ensuring stable and very warm weather conditions. Temperatures are regularly climbing to over 30 degrees Celsius.
This weather pattern is particularly long-lasting because the high-pressure areas are barely moving. Normally, weather fronts move across Switzerland, bringing cooling or precipitation. Currently, however, the hot air is remaining over the Alpine region, leading to significant strain on both people and nature.
Authorities and experts are monitoring the situation closely. Heat is building up, especially in cities, as concrete and asphalt heat up significantly during the day and cool down only slowly at night. This leads to so-called tropical nights, during which temperatures do not fall below 20 degrees even after sunset.
For the population, this means that caution is advised. It is recommended to drink enough water, avoid excessive physical exertion, and keep homes cool during the day. Meteorologists do not currently expect a rapid easing of the situation, which is why the heat continues to keep the country firmly in its grip.