Severe Icy Road Conditions in Germany Cause Multiple Fatalities and Hundreds of Accidents

Severe winter weather conditions have led to dangerous icy roads across several German states, resulting in numerous traffic accidents, multiple fatalities, and widespread public safety disruptions. The situation continues to pose significant hazards, with meteorologists warning that icy roads will persist into the weekend.

On January 23, 2026, the German Weather Service and meteorologists including Dominik Jung from Wetter.net and Dr. Karsten Brandt of Donnerwetter.de reported an "ice rain banana" affecting large regions such as North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland, and areas around the Black Forest. This weather pattern combines rain, freezing rain, and snow, causing icy conditions that contribute to accidents on roads.

A series of accidents on the A44 near Paderborn in NRW on Friday resulted in three fatalities and eleven injuries. Across NRW, icy conditions caused multiple vehicle accidents, emphasizing the dangerous hazards of winter driving. Police reported approximately 400 accidents in Osnabrück, over 100 in Cloppenburg, and more than 60 in the Steinfurt district, with many resulting in injuries.

In Niedersachsen, over 500 accidents were recorded amid extreme icy conditions, particularly in Osnabrück and Emsland. More than 20 individuals sustained injuries, with some cases being serious, including a life-threatening injury on the A1 highway. Public safety measures were enacted—schools cancelled classes or switched to distance learning due to the unsafe conditions. Public transport faced disruptions with bus services suspended and waste collection postponed.

Hospitals reported an influx of patients due to falls, further signaling the widespread risk posed by slippery surfaces. Police urged residents to stay home to avoid contributing to the precarious traffic and safety situation.

This wave of severe winter weather has highlighted the urgent need for caution on German roads. Authorities and meteorologists continue to advise vigilance as freezing rain and snow are expected to maintain hazardous conditions into Saturday morning.