Heat action plans: this is how far Saxony's major cities have come

Summers are getting hotter - this is becoming more and more of a problem, especially in cities. Local authorities should therefore use heat action plans to better prepare the population and infrastructure for periods of heat. This is the aim of the Climate Adaptation Act, which has been in force since last July. Progress is being made at different speeds in Saxony's major cities.

Leipzig adopts first heat action plan

The city of Leipzig adopted its first heat action plan in April. In addition to the heat protection projects already implemented, it provides for 14 new measures. They include information services such as heat warnings or a "refreshment map" with cool places, drinking fountains and water playgrounds, but also the expansion of drinking water supplies and heat adaptation in public transport and at major events.

Groups in particular need of protection are also targeted, for example through specific information campaigns, prevention for babies and toddlers in daycare centers or the distribution of sunscreen and light clothing to the homeless.

The measures are to be implemented primarily in areas with a high heat load. These include Leipzig's city center with the adjacent districts, including Volkmarsdorf, Reudnitz and parts of Connewitz as well as Plagwitz, Lindenau and Gohlis-Mitte.

Dresden with first heat manual

In Dresden, a decision is still pending. However, the state capital has had the first heat manual in Germany since 2023. It provides information about the urban climate, health risks and practical tips for hot days.

It was developed as part of the "HeatResilientCity II" project. Heat protection measures were tested in the Gorbitz district - such as unsealing surfaces. This improves the microclimate, as the soil stores less heat and more water evaporates. In addition, residential buildings from the 1980s were renovated - for example with new windows, roller shutters and so-called air spaces under the roof to protect the upper floors. This should reduce the temperature in particularly affected rooms by up to 3.2 degrees.

The city wants to apply the findings from Gorbitz to the entire city in its heat action plan. According to the latest information from Lord Mayor Dirk Hilbert (FDP), it will not be presented until after the summer.

Plan in progress in Chemnitz

A heat action plan is in progress in Chemnitz. The specialist section is already available to view. It shows that the heat load in the city center, Sonnenberg, Luther quarter, Kaßberg and Altchemnitz is particularly high. Dense and tall buildings with little greenery lead to high levels of heating in these areas. The city wants to develop concrete measures in a broad coordination process.