On Friday residents of Berlin and Brandenburg were warned to expect more icy roads and sidewalks as the German Weather Service (DWD) forecast further episodes of freezing rain and spray‑freeze that could create hazardous glaze.
Why the weather matters
The official ice‑warning for the region was lifted at 09:00, but the DWD continues to issue an official alert for “marked ice” until midday. Freezing rain can quickly turn wet surfaces into black ice, a condition that already disrupted public transport, road traffic and airport operations on Thursday.
Public transport under strain
U‑Bahn
The U3 line resumed service between Möckernbrücke and Gleisdreieck at 11:49, but sections of the line remain closed for “winter‑operation after‑work”. The U2 now runs regularly between Rosa‑Luxemburg‑Platz and Pankow, although other stretches continue to run on a 15‑minute interval or are still halted because of iced‑over power rails.
Regional and long‑distance trains
Freezing conditions have forced cancellations and delays on several ICE routes, including the Berlin‑Wolfsburg‑Kassel‑Frankfurt‑Saarbrücken line and the Hamburg‑Berlin‑Hannover‑Frankfurt corridor. Regional services such as RE30, RE5/RE51 and RE7 too suffer extensive delays or outright suspension.
Airport Berlin‑Brandenburg (BER)
Blizzard‑ice and freezing rain have halted all take‑offs and landings at the airport. De‑icing procedures now take up to an hour per aircraft, leaving dozens of flights cancelled or delayed and prompting airlines to advise passengers to check their flight status regularly.
Roads and safety incidents
Heavy ice on the A10 (Berlin‑Ring) caused two serious accidents near Mühlenbeck and Birkenwerder, while three fatalities were reported in Brandenburg after separate crashes involving an 82‑year‑old driver in Neustadt/Dosse and a five‑passenger car in Klettwitz.
Winter‑service response
The Berliner Stadtreinigung (BSR) has deployed over 2,000 staff and 540 vehicles to clear streets and sidewalks, distributing roughly 300 tonnes of grit to districts and expanding free grit‑pickup points to seven locations. BSR spokesperson Frauke Bank warned that the situation on sidewalks remains dangerous and that residents are responsible for clearing their own pathways, though the agency continues to assist with pedestrian crossings and high‑traffic areas.
What may happen next?
Analysts expect the DWD’s warning to remain in force until at least midday on Friday, after which additional freezing rain could develop over the weekend. If temperatures stay above zero, the glaze may gradually melt, allowing transport operators to restore full service. But, persistent sub‑zero spells could prolong de‑icing at BER and keep certain U‑Bahn sections closed, while the BSR may need to maintain its high‑intensity winter‑service deployment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What weather conditions are expected in the coming days?
The DWD warns of possible freezing rain and spray‑freeze through Friday morning, with a continued official alert for marked ice until 12:00. Similar icy conditions are forecast for Saturday and Sunday, with intermittent snow‑rain and potential overnight refreezing.
Which public‑transport lines are currently affected?
U‑Bahn lines U2 and U3 operate partially or on reduced schedules. Regional RE30, RE5/RE51 and RE7 services face cancellations or severe delays. Several long‑distance ICE routes, especially those linking Berlin with Frankfurt, Saarbrücken and the Baltic coast, are partially cancelled. Bus and tram lines remain largely operational.
What safety advice have authorities issued?
Transport officials recommend driving slowly, keeping greater distance, and, where possible, staying off the roads. The BSR advises residents to clear and grit their own sidewalks, using shovels or ice‑chippers before spreading grit. Passengers are urged to check airline and railway status updates before travelling.
How will you adjust your travel plans in light of the icy forecast?
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