A heatwave has arrived in Poland, prompting the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management to issue a second‑degree warning. Orange alerts will be in effect across multiple regions in the coming days.
Short‑Term Heatwave Forecast
The forecasts predict a multi‑day heatwave.
Temperature Overview
According to synoptic predictions, starting Wednesday (13 August) temperatures in Poland will steadily rise. “Scorching! The south will be clear, the rest of the country with light clouds and occasional showers. Up to 32 °C in the Lubusz Land. Winds are weak, moderate along the coast.”
On the next day, thermometers will show 25 °C in the north and northeast up to 30‑33 °C in most of the country. The eastern region will be cooler – 28‑29 °C – and the mountains 24 °C. The hottest day is expected on Friday (15 August), when thermometers will measure over 30 °C almost everywhere. The only areas below 30 °C will be in the far east, northeast and mountains. Forecasts indicate that heat will persist until Saturday (16 August). By then only the south and southeast will stay above 30 °C. Subsequent days will likely be clear but no longer scorching.
IMGW Issues Warning
In response to the forecasted heat, the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) issued a second‑degree warning.
Coverage of the Alert
The warning covers the northwest part of the West Pomeranian Voivodeship, the entire Lubusz Voivodeship, Greater Poland, Pomeranian, and Łódź Voivodeships, the southern part of the Kuyavian‑Pomeranian Voivodeship, the western part of the Masovian Voivodeship including Warsaw, the western part of the Świętokrzyskie and Lesser Poland Voivodeships, almost all of the Silesian Voivodeship (except Zawiercie County) and Lower Silesian Voivodeship (except southern counties). Maximum temperatures will range from 30 °C to 34 °C during the day, with minimum nighttime temperatures of 15 °C to 17 °C on 13/14 August and 16 °C to 19 °C on 14/15 August. The alert is valid from 12:00 on 13 August to 20:00 on 15 August.
Dangerous Effects of High Temperatures
Along with rising temperatures, the risk of dehydration and hyperthermia increases significantly. Heat can lead to sunstroke or heatstroke, a life‑threatening condition. It also affects the nervous system, causing drowsiness, agitation, and reduced concentration and work efficiency. Heat is particularly dangerous for the elderly and children, and animals can also suffer heat‑related illnesses. To stay safe during heat, experts advise avoiding physical exertion and outdoor activities, wearing headgear, using UV‑protected sunscreen, not leaving children or pets in cars, moderating alcohol intake, shading windows and closing doors, and wearing light, breathable clothing. If you notice symptoms of overheating—rapid breathing, elevated temperature, nausea, dizziness, chills—call 112.
