A winter storm brought hazardous conditions to the German state of Hesse on Friday, January 2, 2026, resulting in numerous traffic accidents and disruptions to public transportation. The most significant impacts were felt in central Hesse, where police reported over 30 weather-related incidents.
Truck Jackknifed, Briefly Closed Autobahn
The morning brought reports of multiple accidents due to the weather. On the A66 highway near Schlüchtern (Main-Kinzig), a truck slid into a ditch and caught fire. First responders were able to rescue the driver, who was transported to a hospital. The roadway toward Frankfurt was temporarily closed as a result.
Multiple Accidents Reported Across the Region
Beyond the A66 incident, numerous other accidents were reported throughout the region. On the A5 highway between Fernwald and Gambacher Kreuz, a collision involving a tour bus and two cars occurred near Pohlheim (Gießen). A woman in one of the cars was trapped and had to be extricated by firefighters before being taken to a hospital. Fortunately, the 50 passengers on the bus were unharmed. Damage from this accident is estimated at 50,000 Euro.
Additional incidents included vehicles sliding off the road in Weilburg-Gaudernbach and a car colliding with a wall in Hohenstein (Rheingau-Taunus).
Further Incidents and Travel Disruptions
A truck became stranded, blocking lanes on the A44 highway between Kassel and Dortmund near Schotten (Vogelsberg). Near Birstein-Völzberg (Main-Kinzig), three people were injured when a car left the roadway. In Osthessen, a three-vehicle collision on the L3181 near Neuhof-Rommertz (Fulda) resulted in minor injuries to four individuals. Southern Hesse reported ten weather-related accidents by afternoon, some resulting in minor injuries.
Public Transportation Impacted
The winter weather also disrupted public transportation. The Rhein-Main-Verkehrsverbund (RMV) reported delays and bus cancellations in the Hochtaunuskreis, Lahn-Dill-Kreis, Wetterau-Kreis, and Gießen areas. Nearly all bus lines in the Nordhessischen Verkehrsverbund (NVV) area were suspended during the morning hours.
Continued Winter Weather Forecast
The German Weather Service has issued warnings for continued icy conditions, with the possibility of snow, sleet, and strong winds. Temperatures are expected to range from -2 to 5 degrees Celsius on Friday. The forecast indicates that the cold and unsettled weather pattern will persist in the coming days, with further snow showers and potential for icy roads through the weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the travel disruptions in Hesse?
Schneefall und glatte Straßen (Snowfall and slippery roads) caused numerous traffic accidents and disruptions to public transportation throughout Hesse.
Where were the most significant traffic incidents reported?
The most significant incidents were reported on the A66 near Schlüchtern, the A5 near Pohlheim, and the A44 near Schotten.
What is the forecast for the coming days?
The forecast indicates continued cold and unsettled weather, with further snow showers and potential for icy roads through the weekend. Temperatures are expected to range from -3 to 3 degrees Celsius.
As conditions remain challenging, will residents adjust their travel plans and prioritize safety in the face of ongoing winter weather?
