Across Europe, and particularly in Germany, severe winter weather is causing widespread disruption. Warnings of intense storms and hazardous conditions are escalating, with experts urging residents to stay home due to the risk of life-threatening situations.
Winter Storms Grip Europe
Initial snowfall and freezing temperatures are creating dangerously slick roads. However, this is being described as a prelude to more significant weather events. A snowstorm is forecast to hit Germany on Thursday, and on Friday, regions including Hamburg, Schleswig-Holstein, eastern Germany, and Lower Saxony are expected to experience continuous snowfall – between five and fifteen centimeters within six hours, according to Dr. Karsten Brandt, a climatologist and founder of Donnerwetter.de.
The combination of snowfall, ice, and blowing snow is creating extremely hazardous conditions. Dr. Brandt advises residents to “plan accordingly, stay home,” warning of a life-threatening situation on the roads Thursday and Friday. Strong winds, particularly in northern and eastern areas, are contributing to blizzard-like conditions. In western Germany, orkan-like gusts of up to 130 km/h are anticipated.
Weekend Outlook
The cold weather is expected to persist through the weekend, with temperatures plummeting to minus 13 degrees Celsius in Berlin and minus 8 degrees Celsius in Hamburg. However, a shift towards warmer air is predicted after the weekend, potentially leading to an easing of the severe weather conditions.
Meteorologist Dominik Jung of wetter.net warns of continued icy road conditions and significant disruptions to both road and rail travel in the coming days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are most affected by the storm?
According to Dr. Karsten Brandt, Hamburg, Schleswig-Holstein, eastern Germany, and Lower Saxony are expected to experience the most significant snowfall on Friday.
How strong are the winds expected to be?
In western Germany, orkan-like gusts of up to 130 km/h are anticipated, while strong winds are also expected in the north and east, causing snowdrifts.
What is the forecast for the weekend?
The weekend is expected to remain very cold, with temperatures as low as minus 13 degrees Celsius in Berlin and minus 8 degrees Celsius in Hamburg. A shift to warmer air is predicted after the weekend.
Given the severity of the forecast, what steps are you taking to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you?
