Snowfall in Northern Germany Causes Minor Traffic Disruptions
Hamburg, Germany – Despite snowfall across northern Germany, police reported no major traffic accidents as of Friday morning. While slick road conditions led to a few minor accidents in Hamburg and Schleswig-Holstein, no injuries were reported.
In Kiel, approximately six minor accidents occurred, primarily involving sheet metal damage. Flensburg also experienced several early morning slide-offs, but these too resulted only in minor damage.
Hamburg’s streets were covered in a light dusting of snow, but its impact on traffic was minimal. "We haven’t seen an increase in traffic. Drivers are clearly being cautious," said a spokesperson for the Hamburg traffic control center. Despite a warning strike by public sector employees, Hamburg’s street cleaning services deployed around 150 personnel to clear roadways.
The snow is expected to remain throughout Friday, with occasional light snowfall predicted overnight, according to the German Weather Service (DWD). However, DWD meteorologist Julia Schmidt discounted the possibility of sledding. "We may see some additional snow, but it’s not going to be significant," she told the German Press Agency. "Temperatures will hover around freezing."
Over the weekend, temperatures are expected to drop significantly, especially at night. "On Sunday night, temperatures could reach minus seven degrees Celsius. That’s going to be quite cold," Schmidt warned. Subsequent nights could bring even colder weather.
Impact on Public Transportation
The snowfall and icy conditions caused some disruptions to public transportation. Buses in Hamburg and Kiel experienced delays and some bus routes were suspended. Rail services also faced delays, with Deutsche Bahn advising passengers to check service updates before traveling.
Advice for Motorists
Drivers are advised to exercise caution on the roads, as icy patches may still be present despite road clearing efforts. It is recommended to allow extra time for travel, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and avoid sudden maneuvers. Additionally, drivers should ensure their vehicles are equipped with winter tires or snow chains in accordance with local regulations.
Outlook for the Weekend
Over the weekend, the weather is expected to remain cold and dry, with sunny spells and temperatures ranging from zero to four degrees Celsius during the day. Overnight temperatures will drop below freezing, reaching minus seven degrees Celsius in some areas. The DWD advises people to dress warmly and take precautions against the cold.
