Heatwave: extension of the red alert until Sunday 07:00

In view of weather forecasts confirming the persistence of exceptionally high temperatures in the coming days, the Cellule d’évaluation des risques intempéries et inondations (CERI), which met again on Thursday afternoon, has decided to extend the red alert until Sunday at 07:00 and calls on the population to exercise the utmost caution.

Temperatures will continue to rise in the coming days, with a peak expected on Saturday. Maximum values could locally reach or even exceed 40°C, particularly in urban areas and in the Moselle valley.

Night-time temperatures will also remain exceptionally high, with several consecutive tropical nights. The night from Saturday to Sunday is expected to be the hottest of the episode, with minimum temperatures locally around 24–26°C.

Operational situation

Since last weekend, operational activity of the CGDIS has been increasing. Yesterday, this rise intensified: due to the worsening heatwave, the number of interventions increased by nearly 70% compared with the average.

CGDIS also reminds that, due to dry vegetation and high temperatures, the risk of vegetation fires is significantly increased.

An increase in visits to emergency services has been observed in recent days in connection with the high temperatures. At this stage, the situation in hospitals remains globally under control. As the effects of a heatwave often intensify with a delay of several days, emergency and health services may continue to face a gradual increase in workload in the coming days.

CERI therefore urges the population to maintain a high level of vigilance, to continue to comply with preventive measures and to pay particular attention to the most vulnerable people, notably the elderly, isolated individuals, young children, people in precarious situations and those with health issues.

Sport events: postponement or cancellation recommended

In view of the exceptional weather conditions expected this weekend, the Ministry of Sports calls for the utmost vigilance during sporting events. It particularly recommends that organisers carefully reassess the holding, conduct and organisation of competitions, events and outdoor sporting gatherings, and take all appropriate measures to ensure the safety of all participants and the public.

Recommended behaviour

Public authorities remind the population of the following measures:

• Drink plenty of water regularly throughout the day (at least 1.5 litres per day)
• Avoid alcohol consumption
• Avoid going outside during the hottest hours (11 a.m. – 9 p.m.) (prolonged and direct sun exposure)
• Keep shutters, curtains and windows closed during the day and ventilate at night
• Cover your head when going outside
• Wear light clothing
• Limit physical activities
• Use fans or air conditioning to cool down
• Stay in cool or air-conditioned places (shopping centres, cinemas, etc.)
• Wet your body several times a day (spray, shower, etc.)
• Regularly check on vulnerable people in your surroundings and accompany them to a cool place

Medication: Some treatments may increase sensitivity to heat, promote dehydration or be less well tolerated during periods of high temperatures. Never change your treatment without medical advice, avoid self-medication and consult your doctor or pharmacist if in doubt.

In the same context, the Prevention Department of the Accident Insurance Association (AAA) recalls that it offers a specialised advisory service for agricultural holdings. This support helps identify occupational safety and health risks, particularly those linked to heat episodes—implement appropriate preventive measures and ensure compliance with legal obligations.

Further details on recommended behaviour regarding vegetation and forest fires, sporting events, and CGDIS intervention statistics will be communicated by the competent authorities.

CERI will continue to closely monitor the situation and will meet again on Saturday morning.

Participants in CERI: Haut-Commissariat à la protection nationale (HCPN), MeteoLux, Directorate of Health, Corps grand-ducal d’incendie et de secours (CGDIS), Grand Ducal Police, Luxembourg Army, Ministry of Education, Children and Youth, Ministry of Home Affairs, Customs and Excise Administration, Labour and Mines Inspectorate, Ministry of Sports, Ministry of Family, Solidarity, Living Together and Reception

Issued by the CERI