Severe Winter Weather Paralyses Germany with Icy Roads and Transport Disruptions

Germany is facing widespread severe winter weather conditions in January 2026, with icy roads, traffic accidents, school closures, and transport disruptions reported across multiple states. The German Weather Service (DWD) has issued high-level Glatteis (black ice) warnings for North Rhine-Westphalia, Baden-Württemberg, Hessen, Saarland, Rheinland-Pfalz, and Bavaria, highlighting dangerous freezing rain and icy surfaces on already frozen ground.

In North Rhine-Westphalia, the DWD has raised the alert to the second highest level due to precipitation falling onto frozen surfaces, causing perilously slippery roads early Monday morning. Authorities urge residents to avoid outdoor activities and driving where possible, recommending drivers carry blankets, warm drinks, and ensure their vehicles are fully fueled. Similarly, Baden-Württemberg faces extended glatteis risks as snow transitions to freezing rain throughout the day.

School closures have been announced in response to these hazardous conditions. In North Rhine-Westphalia, all schools will remain closed on January 12 to prioritize student safety. East Bavaria has also suspended in-person classes amid the icy dangers. In Bavaria, the situation is acute; two fatalities resulted from a head-on collision caused by slippery roads near Dingolfing-Landau, while numerous other accidents have led to multiple injuries across Lower Bavaria and the Oberpfalz region.

Transport services are significantly affected as well. Deutsche Bahn continues to experience delays and cancellations due to snow and ice, especially in southern regions. Train travel runs at reduced speeds, and disruptions persist despite partial service restoration in northern Germany.

Additional concerns come from warnings by the city of Ingolstadt advising against venturing onto frozen lakes or ponds due to unpredictable and unsafe ice thickness. The Alpine regions are on heightened avalanche alert following heavy snowfall.

DWD meteorologist Oliver Reuter noted that the freezing rain impacts will spread widely, particularly in eastern Germany, with further precipitation expected on Tuesday. While some western areas may see improvement, eastern states including Bavaria are likely to endure challenging conditions for the coming days.

With these severe weather events unfolding, German authorities continue to emphasize caution and preparedness to minimize accidents and protect public safety during this cold snap.