The German Weather Service (DWD) forecast high temperatures of low to mid 30s across much of Germany heading into the weekend, increasing the risk of forest fires.

The north of the country was enjoying milder temperatures of between 22 and 27 degrees on Wednesday, while the southwest sweltered in highs of up to 32 degrees.

“But that is just a mild taste of the heat wave we face from Thursday onward,” DWD meteorologist Andreas Friedrich said ominously.

High pressure system Yari will lie directly over Germany on Thursday, pushing temperatures over the 30 degree mark in much of the central and southern parts, reaching 34 in the Rhine-Main region.

“Anyone who finds temperatures above 30 degrees too much to bear is advised to move to higher ground above 800 metres or to coastal areas,” Friedrich said.

Otherwise they can expect temperatures to pass 30 by late morning on Friday and climb as high as 36 or 37 degrees in the afternoon in lower altitude regions of the west and southwest.

Sleeping Friday night could also be a trial, with overnight temperatures unlikely to sink much below 20 degrees.

“We’re talking about a tropical evening,” Friedrich said.

Saturday will bring temperatures also in the low to mid-30s, apart from coastal regions, with the western half again experiencing highs of 37. The DWD has warned football fans to cover up with sunscreen and hats during the heat wave.

Somewhat optimistically, they also urged people watching Saturday’s quarter-final clash between Germany and Argentina to keep hydrated with alcohol-free drinks.

“Football fans are feverishly awaiting the the World Cup quarter-final between Germany and Argentina,” the service said.

“Anyone having problems with heat and heat stress should watch the game in the shade or in a half-way cool room. Otherwise you could end up watching the end of the match not in a public viewing area but in the hospital.”