Late-summer heat gives way to storms and sharp chill

Switzerland is set to experience temperatures above 30 degrees on Tuesday before severe thunderstorms and strong gusts arrive in the evening, SRF reports. Meteorologist Luzian Schmassmann said the storms are not expected to be as severe as those nearly two weeks ago, and hail is unlikely to be a problem.

Strong gusts are possible mainly in the evening, initially between Lake Geneva and the Jura mountain range and later around Lake Constance. A so-called gust front could develop, although it is difficult to predict where the strongest winds will occur. Gusts are possible anywhere in the lowlands, Schmassmann said. He advised residents to retract outdoor blinds and secure parasols on Tuesday afternoon.

A cold front will bring a marked drop in temperatures on Wednesday, with highs of about 19 degrees, which is normal for this time of year. However, temperatures could rise again towards the weekend, with summer-like values of around 25 degrees possible, especially at the start of next week.

Tuesday’s temperatures of 30 to 34 degrees are unusual for early September and approach the highest values ever measured at some locations. It is also exceptional for temperatures to remain so high this late in the year. In Lucerne, Tuesday is expected to be the latest hot day since measurements began, Schmassmann said.