Upcoming weather conditions in Germany predicted to involve heavier rainfalls.

The Klamex study, a joint project by several German authorities, has revealed a concerning trend in heavy rain events over the past two decades. The study, which analysed rainfall data from 2001 to 2020, has shown that the area affected by heavy rain is continuously growing.

The findings suggest that in the future, there will be more frequent small-scale and intense heavy rain episodes instead of widespread persistent rain. This shift in rainfall characteristics, directly proven by the Klamex study, could pose a significant threat to urban regions, where infrastructure is most at risk.

The specific danger from heavy rain is crucially dependent on local conditions. However, the study has identified that locations of fire brigade deployments are significantly more frequent in low-lying areas and heavily populated areas with sealed surfaces. Not every heavy rain event over a settled area causes damage and subsequent deployments, but it is clear that the problem will worsen in a warmer future.

The climate projections from the study also suggest that the number of intense extreme weather events could increase even further in the future. The German Weather Service and the participants of the Klamex project suspect an increased risk of more intense precipitation events primarily in the regions of western and southern Germany.

To combat this growing threat, it is urgent to act to limit the temperature increase that intensifies rainfall extremes through climate protection measures. Building an infrastructure through adaptation measures is necessary to cushion the damage from heavy rain events, especially in urban regions.

While heavy rain can affect anyone, it is crucial to understand that not every heavy rain event over a settled area causes damage and subsequent deployments. However, with the growing trend and the expected intensification of heavy rain events, it is essential to be prepared and take necessary measures to protect ourselves and our infrastructure.