Recent scientific studies on heat-related mortality show that heat stress is affected by both maximum daytime temperatures and temperatures during the night. In addition, both long as well as short and intense periods of heat impact human health.

Heat warnings are only issued for levels 2, 3 and 4.

Meaning of danger level 2 (moderate danger)

For one or two days, there is no significant cooling of the daytime heat, even at night. During this period of heat, there is a moderate risk of circulatory problems and physical discomfort.

Recommendations for action

• Drink at least 1.5 litres per day, preferably unsweetened and non-alcoholic drinks.
• Keep your body cool: seek shade and cool rooms, protect yourself with suitable clothing, headgear and sunscreen, shade windows and ventilate your home early in the morning.
• Avoid physical exertion at the hottest time of day.
• Do not leave people or animals in parked cars.
• Follow the recommendations of the Federal Office of Public Health FOPH.

Additional information

Daily mean temperature ≥ 25 °C for one or two days.

Meaning of danger level 3 (considerable danger)

For at least three consecutive days, there is no significant cooling of the daytime heat, even at night.  During this heatwave, there is a significant risk of circulatory problems and physical discomfort.

Recommendations for action

• Drink at least 1.5 litres per day, preferably unsweetened and non-alcoholic drinks.
• Keep your body cool: seek shade and cool rooms, protect yourself with suitable clothing, headgear and sunscreen, shade windows and ventilate your home early in the morning.
• Avoid physical exertion at the hottest time of day.
• Keep in touch with at-risk people in your neighbourhood.
• Do not leave people or animals in parked cars.
• Follow the recommendations of the Federal Office of Public Health FOPH.

Additional information

Daily mean temperature ≥ 25 °C for at least three consecutive days.

Meaning of danger level 4 (high danger)

For at least three consecutive days, there is no cooling of the daytime heat, even at night. During this heatwave, there is a severe risk of circulatory problems and physical discomfort.

Recommendations for action

• Drink at least 1.5 litres per day, preferably unsweetened and non-alcoholic drinks.
• Keep your body cool: seek shade and cool rooms, protect yourself with suitable clothing, headgear and sunscreen, shade windows and ventilate your home early in the morning.
• Avoid physical exertion at the hottest time of day.
• Keep in touch with at-risk people in your neighbourhood.
• Do not leave people or animals in parked cars.
• Follow the recommendations of the Federal Office of Public Health FOPH.

Additional information

Daily mean temperature ≥ 27 °C for at least three consecutive days.