BERLIN—Berlin police deployed water cannons normally used for crowd-control operations to spray fine mist over residents and tourists as Germany's capital endured an intense early-summer heatwave, with temperatures approaching 40 degrees Celsius and authorities warning of heightened health risks from prolonged extreme heat.
The unusual operation took place at several prominent public locations, including the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, Potsdamer Platz, the Red Town Hall and Mauerpark. Police said the vehicles used a gentle spray designed to cool people rather than the high-pressure jets employed during security operations. Authorities announced the route in advance and advised members of the public who did not wish to be sprayed to move away from the affected areas.
The deployment came as Germany experienced one of its most severe heat episodes of the year, prompting officials across the country to urge people to stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary outdoor activity during the hottest hours and check on elderly and vulnerable residents. According to the German Weather Service (DWD), exceptionally high daytime temperatures were accompanied by unusually warm nights that provided little relief, increasing the risk of heat-related illness.
Berlin police said the cooling operation was intended to provide temporary relief for people gathered in busy public spaces. The water cannon vehicles toured central districts throughout the afternoon, attracting residents and visitors seeking respite from the heat.
The heatwave affected much of Germany, with provisional DWD observations indicating temperatures near or above 40 degrees Celsius in some regions. Meteorologists also reported record-high overnight temperatures in parts of the country, underscoring the persistence of the hot weather. Forecasts indicated the extreme heat would ease after the arrival of cooler air accompanied by thunderstorms in some areas.
The operation reflected a broader response by German authorities to increasingly frequent periods of extreme heat, which public health officials say pose growing risks to urban populations. Cities across the country have expanded heat-response measures in recent years, including public cooling initiatives, heat warnings and guidance aimed at reducing heat-related illnesses.
By late in the day, police had completed the scheduled route through central Berlin. Weather forecasts indicated temperatures were expected to moderate in the following days as cooler conditions moved across Germany, although officials continued to advise residents to follow heat-safety guidance until the heatwave subsided.
