Warm Temperatures Bring Hopes of Spring, but Experts Caution Against Premature Expectations
Meteorological Forecast
According to the German Weather Service (DWD), temperatures in western Germany could reach nearly 20°C (68°F) over the weekend. This has raised expectations, especially with the meteorological start of spring just a week away. In 2024, Germany experienced its warmest March since measurements began in 1881. However, meteorologists urge caution against packing away winter essentials just yet.
Temperature Fluctuations
While temperatures in the west are expected to rise to 15°C (59°F) on Thursday, the east still faces temperatures below freezing at night. On Friday and over the weekend, it may become even milder, with temperatures reaching up to 19°C (66°F) in areas near the Lower Rhine, as predicted by the DWD on Wednesday.
However, forecasts for the following week remain uncertain. Tanja Egerer from the DWD’s weather forecasting center anticipates a drop in temperatures, potentially settling between 6°C (43°F) and 12°C (54°F). "We can’t say that spring is here just yet," she told the German Press Agency.
Health Implications of Rapid Temperature Changes
Stefan Muthers of the DWD highlights that significant temperature fluctuations can be stressful for the body. However, the perceived impact varies from person to person. Some individuals may experience headaches or dizziness during weather transitions. Experts recommend exposure to the outdoors to help the body adapt to changing weather conditions.
Signs of Spring
The perception of spring is influenced not only by temperatures but also by the increasing amount of daylight. Each day, daylight lasts a few minutes longer than the previous one, with the most significant increase occurring in spring, up to four minutes daily.
Bird enthusiasts should keep an eye on the sky, as many of the hundreds of thousands of cranes that flew over Germany towards France and Spain a few weeks ago are already returning. The Naturschutzbund (NABU) counted over 80,000 cranes flying back over Hesse by midweek.
In gardens, early bloomers are beginning to emerge. Hazel trees are the most advanced, and the first alder trees are starting to bloom. In warmer regions, snowdrops are making an appearance, and crocuses have been spotted in isolated areas. With the rising temperatures forecast for the coming days, the Cornelian cherry may also join the early bloomers.
Should temperatures drop again after the upcoming warm spell, there is no need to worry about these early bloomers, according to Andreas Brömser, DWD’s agricultural meteorologist. Fruit trees, however, are more susceptible to cold temperatures, but they are not yet at a vulnerable stage.
Pollen Season and Allergies
As temperatures rise, allergy sufferers should be prepared for increasing pollen levels. Experts anticipate an increase in hazel and alder pollen, which currently have moderate levels. "The intensity will then increase explosively," says DWD expert Muthers. Relief for allergy sufferers may come in the form of rain, which can reduce pollen concentrations.
Spring: Meteorological and Calendar Dates
To add to the confusion, the start of spring occurs on two different dates each year:
- Meteorological Spring: Always begins on March 1st.
- Calendar Spring: Varies depending on the position of the sun and occurs when the sun is directly above the equator. This year, calendar spring begins on March 20th.
