Freezing Rain: Widespread Accidents in Germany’s North

Northern Germany is currently grappling with a severe weather crisis, primarily due to freezing rain which has transformed the region into a treacherous landscape. Following a period of intense cold, temperatures have begun to rise, but the ground remains frozen. Consequently, the recent rainfall has led to the formation of dangerous ice sheets on roads and pathways across various states, including Berlin, Brandenburg, Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia.

Emergencies and Accidents

The icy conditions have resulted in numerous accidents and emergency responses. In Berlin, all available ambulances are deployed to cope with the crisis. The Berlin Fire Department, overwhelmed by the situation, has described the state of affairs as an “emergency” due to the increased demand for their services. Similarly, Potsdam has witnessed several traffic accidents due to the slippery roads.

The Berlin population received warnings through a mobile app, advising residents to expect significant slipperiness, especially on sidewalks, and to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities. The German Weather Service (DWD) has also issued warnings of high ice dangers in regions like Harz, Altmark in Saxony-Anhalt, northern Saxony, and Südharz in Thuringia. Light snowfall around Leipzig contributed to the hazardous conditions, though no major accidents or road closures were reported.

North Rhine-Westphalia and Lower Saxony Affected

North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) has witnessed a different scenario, with a dozen accidents reported in Hamm alone, though thankfully no injuries. The police have advised drivers to exercise extreme caution. This is particularly pertinent in Münster, where a farmers’ demonstration involving around 2,000 tractors took place. Glatteis warnings were also issued for Borken, Paderborn, and Oberhausen.

In Lower Saxony, the Integrated Control Center Salzgitter advised residents to avoid driving if possible. Freezing rain has coated a swath from Uelzen through the Greater Hanover area, Osnabrück, and into the southern Emsland with dangerous ice. Similar conditions were reported in Hildesheim.

Weather Forecast and Precautions

The weather forecast indicates that the northern half of Germany should brace for slippery roads due to the previous days’ double-digit sub-zero temperatures and an expected cold night. In contrast, sunny weather is predicted for Southern Germany. The Berlin Fire Department has urged residents to stay indoors if possible and advised those with minor injuries to seek medical help on their own to avoid overwhelming emergency services.

ARD weather expert Torsten Walter warned that the freezing rain could continue, making the roads treacherously icy, particularly in the evenings and nights. He cautioned that the icy conditions might persist into the morning hours of the following day, although the risk of ice would decrease during the daytime.

The sudden onset of freezing rain has posed significant challenges for residents of Northern Germany, leading to emergency situations and widespread accidents. As authorities and emergency services work tirelessly to manage the crisis, residents are urged to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel to ensure their safety and alleviate the strain on emergency responders.