A band of freezing rain is expected to impact parts of Bavaria through Friday morning, according to preliminary information from the German Weather Service (DWD). The affected area stretches from the Allgäu region through Upper Bavaria to southern Middle Franconia and the Upper Palatinate, with a particular focus on Lower Bavaria.
Impact on Travel and Education
While areas in western Franconia and Swabia are forecast to experience only temporary ice, the Oberpfalz region is already seeing school closures due to the hazardous conditions. A list of affected cities and districts is available on the Bavarian State Ministry of Education’s portal. The “acute risk of ice” was cited as the reason for these closures.
Storm “Elli” and Winter Preparations
The challenging weather is attributed to storm “Elli,” bringing new precipitation to the Free State starting Thursday evening. This precipitation is expected to turn to rain in many areas overnight. The DB has intensified its winter preparations, including using heavy locomotives to clear snow from tracks. However, the DB acknowledges that even with preparation, all weather conditions cannot be fully mitigated.
Snowfall and Avalanche Risk
Northern parts of Bavaria may see snowfall on Friday, with 10 to 20 centimeters of new snow anticipated in the Middle Franconian region, Upper Franconia, the Upper Palatinate extending to Lower Bavaria, and the Oberallgäu. Temperatures are hovering around freezing, potentially reaching a mild 10 degrees Celsius in the Alpine foothills, but dropping to -6 degrees Celsius overnight. Strong winds, with potential hurricane-force gusts in the middle altitudes of the Alps, are also expected.
The Bavarian Avalanche Warning Service anticipates up to 10 centimeters of new snow overnight, and up to 15 centimeters in the high altitudes of the Allgäu Alps. Wind-driven snow accumulation will further increase avalanche danger.
Looking Ahead: A Return to Frost
Snow is forecast to return overnight Saturday, particularly in the mid-mountains and the Alps, with temperatures between -1 and 4 degrees Celsius. However, this cold snap is expected to be brief. The DWD anticipates even colder temperatures overnight Sunday, ranging from -4 to -9 degrees Celsius, and potentially as low as -13 degrees Celsius in parts of northern Bavaria.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are most affected by the freezing rain?
The freezing rain is expected to impact a band of territory from the Allgäu through Upper Bavaria to southern Middle Franconia and the Upper Palatinate, with a particular focus on Lower Bavaria.
Why are schools closing in the Oberpfalz?
Schools in the Oberpfalz are closing due to the “acute risk of ice,” as stated by authorities.
What is the Deutsche Bahn doing to prepare for the winter weather?
The Deutsche Bahn has heating systems for around 8,140 of the more than 10,000 railway switches in Bavaria and is using heavy locomotives to clear snow from tracks.
How will you prepare for the changing weather conditions in the coming days?
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