A harsh winter storm has swept across Europe, bringing hazardous conditions and significant disruptions. Freezing rain and snowfall have resulted in treacherous road conditions, particularly affecting southwestern Germany and parts of the UK. Gusty winds reaching up to 110 km/h were recorded in some regions, exacerbating the situation.
Numerous accidents have been reported across German states, including Lower Saxony, Thuringia, and Bavaria. Over 100 accidents occurred in Lower Saxony alone, with several injuries. In Bremen, more than 80 accidents were documented. A tragic incident on the A1 near Sittensen led to the death of 7,000 trout. In Bavaria, the weather service has issued warnings for icy roads, particularly in the southeast, causing a series of vehicular incidents.
The adverse weather has also severely affected air travel. Over 30 flights were canceled at Berlin's BER Airport, and similar disruptions were seen at Frankfurt and Munich airports. The railway network experienced delays and cancellations, further complicating travel plans.
In the UK, heavy snowfall led to the temporary closure of airports in Liverpool, Manchester, and Leeds. The Met Office issued severe weather warnings, predicting up to 40 cm of snow in certain areas, which could lead to train delays and power outages.
Authorities across affected regions have advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel and exercise caution. The Deutsche Wetterdienst and other meteorological services continue to monitor the situation, urging the public to stay informed as the weather pattern evolves. As the harsh conditions persist, further disruptions and safety risks are anticipated.
