Severe Winter Weather Strains Berlin Fire Department and Disrupts Transport in Niedersachsen

In early 2026, Germany is grappling with persistent severe winter conditions marked by icy roads and heavy snowfall. Berlin's fire department experienced a historic surge in emergency calls during January, handling 51,259 calls—the highest ever recorded. January 3 stood out as a critical day when a power outage in the Steglitz-Zehlendorf district alone generated 1,714 emergency responses. Icy conditions have doubled the usual weekly number of falls, reaching nearly 3,000 incidents, creating immense pressure on emergency services. Due to a shortage of available ambulances, fire trucks were occasionally repurposed to transport patients, although this was an exceptional measure. Volunteer firefighters played an essential role in managing emergency demand when professional teams were overwhelmed. The fire department urged residents to remain cautious amid hazardous conditions on sidewalks and roads.

Meanwhile, in Niedersachsen, the weather situation showed signs of improvement after severe icing led to numerous accidents and transport disruptions. Over 110 crashes were reported in the Osnabrück area alone, including multiple truck accidents on major highways, and schools remained closed. Train services faced delays and cancellations, particularly on routes between Hannover and Berlin, due to weather-related switch malfunctions. Bus services were suspended in some areas because of treacherous road conditions. Although temperatures dipped between -4 and 0 degrees Celsius, the forecast indicated milder weather with temperatures rising to 8 degrees Celsius over the weekend, potentially easing conditions. However, frost during nights and possible new ice formation remain concerns.

The German Weather Service (DWD) and authorities are closely monitoring the conditions as the country continues to manage the operational challenges posed by prolonged winter weather. Efforts include maintaining road clearance and adjusting emergency services to cope with high demand. Residents across affected regions are advised to exercise heightened caution in traveling as icy surfaces and transit disruptions persist.