Coldest Night of the Year in Parts of Germany, with Freezing Temperatures Persisting
The recent night brought shivering temperatures to Hohenlohe and the Swabian Alb regions of Germany. Ellwangen in the Ostalbkreis region recorded the lowest temperature in the state, plummeting to -12.5 degrees Celsius, according to the German Weather Service (DWD).
However, this was not the coldest night of the year in Baden-Württemberg. On January 4th, temperatures in Meßstetten in the Zollernalbkreis district dropped to -17.6 degrees Celsius, setting the current record low for 2025.
Near Stuttgart and along the Upper Rhine River, minimum temperatures ranged between -3 and -8 degrees Celsius during the night. But not all regions experienced such extreme cold: in the Breisgau area, high fog kept some places frost-free.
The cold spell is expected to continue for another night, with the DWD forecasting low temperatures between -3 and -9 degrees Celsius. However, relief is in sight: warmer weather is on the horizon, with only occasional frost at night over the weekend.
"Temperatures will become spring-like," said DWD meteorologist Lennart Bock. On Thursday, temperatures are expected to range between 6 and 14 degrees Celsius.
Additional Details and Analysis
The freezing temperatures are attributed to a high-pressure system over Central Europe, which has brought clear skies and calm winds. This combination allows cold air to settle and temperatures to drop significantly overnight.
The impact of the cold weather has been felt across the region. In Hohenlohe, schools were closed due to icy roads, and in the Swabian Alb, emergency services had to respond to several accidents caused by slippery conditions.
The extreme cold poses risks to health, especially for the elderly and those with underlying health conditions. Hypothermia and frostbite can occur in a matter of minutes in these temperatures.
Authorities urge residents to take precautions against the cold, such as wearing warm clothing, covering exposed skin, and staying indoors as much as possible.
Outlook: Warmer Weather on the Horizon
The cold spell is expected to ease by the weekend, as a westerly wind brings milder air to the region. Temperatures will rise significantly, with highs reaching up to 14 degrees Celsius on Thursday and continuing to increase over the weekend.
The warmer weather will provide some relief from the frigid conditions, but it is important to note that occasional frost may still occur at night.
The upcoming change in weather is welcome news for many, who have been enduring the harsh winter conditions. Spring-like temperatures and sunshine will provide a much-needed reprieve from the cold and allow for more outdoor activities.
