Berlin must prepare for rising temperatures. One expert sees the capital on its way to conditions similar to those found in southern regions of Europe.
According to sociology professor Fritz Reusswig, the capital will have to prepare for Mediterranean-like temperatures in the future. “It’s getting warmer in Berlin. That’s what all the forecasts and all the models say,” explained the scientist from the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research at the first dialogue workshop on the future of Tempelhofer Feld. “The climate is already changing, and it will continue to change.”
In terms of climate, Berlin is moving south, says Reusswig. By the year 2100, the city will have reached the climate of Toulouse. In the worst case scenario, the development could shift even further south, to the south of the Pyrenees.
Reusswig expressed particular concern about the increasing number of hot days in Berlin. While up until 2000 there were an average of eight days a year with temperatures above 30 degrees, a further increase is likely by 2100. Heat is harmful to health and poses a serious danger, particularly for risk groups such as small children and the elderly.
In addition, there could be problems with the water supply in summer. Although the amount of precipitation could increase, a large part would evaporate due to the rising temperatures, which could lead to water shortages.
Reusswig was invited to speak at the first dialogue workshop on the future use of Tempelhofer Feld. Around 275 randomly selected Berliners are to submit recommendations to the Senate and the House of Representatives by summer 2025. According to a referendum ten years ago, the 300-hectare Tempelhofer Feld may not be built on.
