Severe Winter Storm Brings Freezing Temperatures and Disruptions Across Germany

Germany is currently grappling with severe winter weather conditions, marked by plummeting temperatures, heavy snowfall, and strong winds. A powerful storm system is forecasted to bring gusts of up to 120 km/h alongside intense snow showers, particularly affecting northern and higher altitude regions.

Temperatures have plunged into the double digits below zero, with some alpine areas, such as Kempten, experiencing lows of minus 22 degrees Celsius. Most of Germany is enduring persistent frost, with only a few areas expecting temperatures above freezing. The German Weather Service (DWD) has issued frost warnings, especially for southern and eastern parts of the country, where temperatures could drop as low as minus 17 degrees Celsius under clear skies.

The winter conditions have led to hazardous travel situations. Snow accumulations of 10 to 20 centimeters within hours are expected, complicating road safety, especially when snow transitions to rain or freezing rain. The severe weather has already caused significant disruptions to transport, including train delays and flight cancellations, while power outages have been reported in several regions.

Authorities advise caution for morning commuters due to icy roads and emphasize the importance of dressing warmly. The danger extends beyond travel; frost warnings caution against extended outdoor exposure due to potential frost damage. Additionally, warnings about ice thickness on frozen lakes highlight that safe ice for activities is considered to be at least 25 centimeters thick.

The storm's impacts are felt across Europe, with power outages in southern Romania, icy conditions affecting Croatian coastal highways, and numerous school closures in Scotland due to the weather.

Overall, this severe winter event poses ongoing challenges to public safety and transportation, with meteorologists and authorities urging vigilance as the storm progresses.