This holiday season, southern Germany is set for a traditional white Christmas, as snow blankets regions like the Ore Mountains, Black Forest, and Bavarian Forest. The low-pressure system "Diana" initially brought turbulent weather, but it was soon followed by high pressure "Günther," ushering in serene, picturesque winter landscapes. While areas above 400-600 meters may see persistent snow, valleys could experience severe frost.
However, this frosty tranquility is not universal. The northern and western regions, including places like NRW and Berlin, are expected to face mild, drizzly weather, with temperatures ranging from -1 to 10 degrees Celsius. Here, the prospect of a snow-covered Christmas seems unlikely, a stark reminder of changing climate patterns.
For motorists, the festive period brings potential hazards, including black ice in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg. In the highlands, snowfall up to 100 centimeters could lead to traffic disruptions and increased avalanche risks. As the year closes, a shift to stormier conditions with possible snow and rain is anticipated, especially around New Year's Day. This contrasts with the Nordic countries experiencing unseasonably mild temperatures, highlighting the varied weather across Europe.
