After a brief respite with temperatures reaching 12 degrees Celsius, colder weather is returning to Germany. Experts and traditional folklore suggest a prolonged period of frost may be ahead, potentially lasting until March.
What the January 20th Folklore Suggests
The old saying, “An Fabian und Sebastian fängt der rechte Winter an” – meaning “With Fabian and Sebastian, the real winter begins” – refers to the feast day of early Christian martyrs on January 20th. Traditionally, this date signaled to farmers that colder temperatures were on their way.
Beginning Tuesday, temperatures will drop significantly, initially in eastern Germany and spreading westward by the end of the week. A return to sustained freezing temperatures is expected to last for at least the next two weeks.
Cold Air Mass from Russia Brings Winter Back
Meteorologist Dominik Jung stated, “A cold air mass from Russia is pushing cold air towards us. This could be the beginning of a longer winter phase.” He forecasts nighttime temperatures dropping below minus ten degrees Celsius, though snow is not currently predicted.
The German Weather Service (DWD) also confirms the return of winter, stating, “It will become more wintry again from Tuesday, especially east of the Elbe.” However, the DWD notes that the duration of this trend remains uncertain.
Jung predicts the cold period through late January and early February will be colder than earlier winter periods when snow fell. Some models even suggest a frigid February, aligning with the predictions associated with Fabian and Sebastian – that the weather on January 20th foreshadows whether Germany will experience freezing temperatures all the way into March.
Jung concludes, “We have to wait and see. But a new winter phase is definitely coming. Winter isn’t finished yet; it’s just getting started.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the return of cold weather?
A cold air mass from Russia is pushing colder temperatures into Germany, according to weather expert Dominik Jung.
When will the colder temperatures begin?
The colder temperatures are expected to begin on Tuesday, initially in eastern Germany and spreading westward by the end of the week.
Is snow expected?
Currently, snow is not predicted, although nighttime temperatures are expected to drop below minus ten degrees Celsius.
How will you prepare for the potential for a prolonged cold snap?
