Germany is bracing for a dramatic shift in weather this weekend, as a significant plume of Sahara dust arrives alongside warm desert air, pushing temperatures back into the summer range before potentially giving way to thunderstorms and rain.

Desert Air Delivers Warmth and Dust

A build-up of warm summer air over Spain is set to surge towards Germany beginning this Thursday. This influx will carry not only significantly warmer temperatures but also a substantial amount of Sahara dust, described by weather watchers as a potentially “major dust outbreak”.

Across the country, maximum temperatures are expected to soar, reaching between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius over the weekend. This marks a return to summery conditions after cooler periods.

Thunderstorm Risk Looms, Especially in the West

However, the warmth may be accompanied by instability. Current weather models are forecasting thunderstorms for Saturday and Sunday, with the western regions of Germany identified as the area most likely to be affected.

Meteorologists warn that these weather changes can often trigger unsettled conditions. There is a potential for severe weather, which could include localized heavy rain, hail, or strong gusty winds associated with the thunderstorms.

Cooler Temperatures and Rain Expected Next Week

This period of warmth and storms appears to be a precursor to another significant change. Forecasts indicate a sharp drop in temperatures after the weekend.

Looking ahead to Holy Week, the forecast finally includes the return of rain. While it’s too early to predict exact rainfall amounts, the models suggest wetter conditions are on the way following the weekend’s heat and potential storm activity.

Residents are advised to stay updated on local weather warnings, particularly those in western areas, as the weekend approaches. The impact of the Sahara dust on visibility and potential rainfall patterns is also being closely monitored.