Berlin Shivers in Minus 12.5 Degrees
Berlin, Germany – The German capital experienced a bitter cold snap overnight into Tuesday, as temperatures plummeted to a bone-chilling minus 12.5 degrees Celsius in the northeastern district of Buch, according to the German Weather Service (DWD). The frigid conditions are expected to persist for the next two nights.
Record-Breaking Cold in Saxony
Germany’s coldest spot overnight was in Deutschneudorf-Brüderwiese, Saxony, where temperatures dropped to a staggering minus 19.7 degrees Celsius. The Harz region in neighboring Saxony-Anhalt also experienced similarly low temperatures.
Freezing Temperatures Across Eastern Germany
The eastern Brandenburg town of Manschnow, bordering Poland, recorded a temperature of minus 17.6 degrees Celsius. Other areas of Thüringen, Niedersachsen, and Bayern also saw temperatures significantly below minus 10 degrees Celsius.
Cause of the Cold Snap
The cold weather is attributed to a high-pressure area over Scandinavia, which is pushing cold air from the north towards Central Europe. The clear skies and lack of wind have allowed temperatures to plummet even further overnight.
Impact on Daily Life
The extreme cold has caused significant disruption in Berlin and other affected areas. Public transportation has been delayed or canceled, and many businesses and schools have closed due to safety concerns.
Staying Warm and Safe
Authorities are urging people to stay indoors as much as possible and to wear warm clothing when venturing outside. Hypothermia and frostbite can set in quickly in such frigid conditions.
Meteorological Significance
The cold snap is a reminder of the often unpredictable nature of winter weather in Germany. While such low temperatures are not uncommon in the eastern part of the country, they can be particularly harsh in urban areas.
Forecast for Coming Days
The DWD predicts that the cold weather will continue for the next few days, with nighttime temperatures remaining below freezing. A slight warming trend is expected towards the weekend, but temperatures will still remain below average for this time of year.
Advice for Residents
Residents are advised to take precautions against the cold by wearing appropriate clothing, staying hydrated, and avoiding prolonged exposure to the elements. If experiencing symptoms of hypothermia or frostbite, seek medical attention immediately.
Conclusion
Berlin and other parts of Germany are facing a severe cold snap, with temperatures plummeting to record lows. Staying warm and safe is of paramount importance during such extreme weather conditions. The cold spell is expected to persist for several more days before temperatures gradually rise, bringing much-needed relief to the region.
