The German Weather Service (DWD) has issued a preliminary advisory, highlighting the potential for dangerous storms that may include hurricane-force gusts and hailstones larger than eight centimeters in diameter. Munich is among the areas that could be significantly affected.
High Damage Potential for People and Infrastructure
The DWD warns that the forecasted mix of large hail and intense wind gusts poses a “considerable risk to people, infrastructure, and the environment.” While regions like Franconia may see the first signs of unsettled weather early in the day with scattered showers and initial thunderstorms, the rest of Bavaria is expected to remain relatively calm until the afternoon. After that, storm activity is expected to increase sharply, especially from the west.
Temperatures on Wednesday are predicted to rise noticeably, reaching up to 20°C in the Rhön region and up to 29°C in southeastern Bavaria. By evening and into the early hours of Thursday, storms are expected to move eastward. While conditions in Franconia may stabilize overnight, other parts of Bavaria will likely continue to experience rainfall, including thunderstorms. Nighttime temperatures will drop to between 10°C and 16°C.
Preliminary Forecasts Carry Uncertainty but Warn of Localized Impacts
The DWD emphasizes that its current bulletin is an early assessment, and details may still change. Severe thunderstorms often occur on a very localized scale, meaning that only a few areas may be directly hit with full intensity.
Meteorologist Predicts Strongest Storms of the Year So Far
Jan Schenk, meteorologist and head of The Weather Channel Germany, issued a stark warning, calling the situation potentially one of the most serious weather events of the year. He identified southern Germany as particularly at risk, with thunderstorms moving northward from Switzerland throughout the day.
According to Schenk, Munich could be impacted by so-called “supercells” — large, highly organized thunderstorms — between 6:00 and 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday. These systems are especially dangerous, often producing torrential rain, very large hail, and severe wind gusts.
Public Urged to Monitor Alerts and Prepare for Disruptions
Residents are advised to closely follow weather warnings and to prepare for disruptions to public life, including transportation delays and possible damage to property. Authorities recommend taking precautions in advance to minimize risk during the peak of the storm.
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