Heat warning hits Warsaw and Mazovia

26 July 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

IMGW issues a heat warning Warsaw and Mazovia; expect 30°C now and hotter days ahead. Stay informed and take precautions.

Heat warning Warsaw and Mazovia comes into force after a spell of storms. The national weather service IMGW alerts residents to daytime highs near 30°C now, and worse heat at July’s end.

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What the warning covers

IMGW issued a first-level warning. It covers Warsaw and most of Mazovia. Consequently, authorities list many counties from Płock to Siedlce. Moreover, forecasters expect daytime maximums around 30°C. However, the warning runs only until Sunday evening. In addition, similar alerts affect twelve voivodeships nationwide. Therefore, this is a broad, not local, event.

Why Warsaw will feel hotter

City residents feel heat more intensely due to the urban heat island effect. Buildings and asphalt absorb heat all day. Consequently, temperatures fall less at night in central districts. Moreover, places like Śródmieście and Wola trap warmth longest. Therefore, even moderate regional heat can feel severe in the centre. Also, green areas near the Vistula offer relief. So plan outdoor activities early or late.

When worse days arrive

Meteorologists warn that the single-day heat will not end the cycle. At the end of July and start of August, highs may exceed 35°C. In addition, the new heat wave should last about seven days overall. Consequently, most days will reach roughly 30–31°C between peaks. Moreover, long-range forecasts predict a generally hot August. Therefore, residents should prepare now.

Practical safety steps

Move outdoor plans to mornings or late evenings. Also, carry water and wear light clothing. Avoid strenuous exercise at peak hours. In addition, seek shade in parks and tree-lined boulevards. If you live in a poorly ventilated flat, consider cooling packs. Moreover, use public spaces with air conditioning, like shopping centres. If you face health issues, contact emergency services. Note that the public health insurer (NFZ) covers urgent care for residents. Also, social insurance (ZUS) handles certain sickness benefits for workers who miss shifts due to heat.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: In Poland, people often call an ambulance or visit a hospital for severe heat illness. Your national health insurance card helps if you signed with NFZ. Otherwise private clinics can treat you quickly. Also, keep identity documents like your PESEL or passport handy for registration (PESEL is a Polish ID number used for many services). Remember that police can issue a fine (mandat) for dangerous behaviour during public emergencies. Therefore, check IMGW updates frequently and adapt plans accordingly.

IMGW updates forecasts several times daily. Consequently, check the institute’s website for changes. Moreover, local municipalities may open cooling centres during sustained heat. Therefore, follow local advice and support vulnerable neighbours. Finally, seniors and young children face higher risk. So prioritise their comfort and hydration.

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