Severe Storms with Winds up to 110 km/h Batter Northern Germany on May 29, 2026

Northern Germany is experiencing a significant severe weather event on May 29, 2026, with thunderstorms, heavy rain, and wind gusts reaching up to 110 kilometers per hour. The German Weather Service (DWD) has issued warnings for regions including Niedersachsen, Hamburg, Bremen, and Schleswig-Holstein. The storm, driven by a cold front encountering warm, moist air, has caused fallen trees blocking major roads such as the A1 and A30 near Osnabrück, prompting cautions about aquaplaning. Rail traffic is also disrupted, with Deutsche Bahn reporting delays due to safety measures.

In addition to the strong winds, hailstones up to 4 centimeters in diameter have been reported in some areas. Forecasts indicate rainfall of up to 30 liters per square meter in intense bursts, contributing to hazardous conditions. While thunderstorm activity is less frequent in Hamburg and Schleswig-Holstein, isolated occurrences remain possible.

Experts note the unusual timing of such a cold front in late May, with temperatures expected to drop from around 30 degrees Celsius to a high of 24 degrees Celsius following the storms. The weather is predicted to stabilize over the weekend, with northern Bavaria seeing increased thunderstorm risk by Saturday but southern regions remaining calmer initially.

As meteorologist Tim Steger from the ARD Weather Competence Centre explained, the combination of warm air and the advancing cold front triggers these severe conditions, which mark a sharp contrast to the sunny and warm weather experienced earlier in the week.

Residents are advised to remain cautious, especially around affected transportation routes and during outdoor activities, as the region navigates this exceptional late-spring storm event.