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Severe Ice Conditions Expected Across Germany Following Winter Storms
After the passing of winter storm “Elli,” a brief period of sunshine was observed across many parts of Germany on Sunday. However, meteorological forecasts warn of a rapid shift as a new low-pressure system named “Gunda” approaches, bringing snow followed by freezing rain, which is expected to create hazardous ice conditions on roads and sidewalks nationwide overnight and into Monday. The German Weather Service (DWD) forecasts that this episode will affect nearly all regions, with the worst conditions expected in western Germany moving eastwards, extending as far as Niederbayern, as well as along the Oder and Neiße rivers in the east [Source 1].
The DWD highlighted the danger of “unwetterartige Glatteis-Lage” (severe icy conditions resembling a storm) prompting authorities to take precautionary measures to reduce risk to public safety.
Impact on Schools, Transport, and Expatriates in Germany
Due to the threat of dangerous ice on roads and walkways, schools across all of North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) and parts of Lower Saxony will switch to distance learning on Monday. This disruption aims to keep students and staff safe by reducing travel in affected areas, as the second wave of precipitation intensifies overnight, bringing locally severe icy conditions akin to those caused by storm “Elli” earlier in the week [Source 1][Source 3].
Transport infrastructure is also taking precautions; Deutsche Bahn’s infrastructure company DB InfraGo has begun analysis to optimize responses and minimize delays, although severe disruptions on the scale of the previous weekend are not anticipated. Nonetheless, regional frost and freezing rain may still impact travel through Tuesday, especially in Bavaria and eastern Germany, before improving on Wednesday when milder conditions are expected [Source 3].
For expatriates, international students, and foreign workers living in Germany, this weather event presents several practical challenges. Commuting times may increase significantly due to icy roads and public transport delays. School closures affect families with children requiring adjustments for homeschooling. It is advisable to plan travel carefully, monitor local weather updates, and ensure appropriate winter equipment such as snow tires and warm clothing. Authorities also recommend avoiding unnecessary travel during peak icy periods for safety reasons.
Regional Variations and Safety Recommendations Amid Glatteis Warnings
In southeastern Germany and the central eastern mountain regions, temperatures are expected to plummet to severe frost levels between -10 and -15 degrees Celsius, further exacerbating ice formation on surfaces. Hamburg faces unique challenges, with restrictions such as bans on salt use on sidewalks due to environmental concerns, despite the heaviest snowfall in 15 years [Source 4].
The widespread issuance of ice warnings by the DWD across numerous federal states emphasizes the critical need for caution. Authorities highlight that living and working in affected zones during this winter phase requires vigilance, planning for possible disruptions, and adherence to safety advisories. The DWD anticipates a gradual end to this hazardous winter spell by midweek, with weather conditions easing by Wednesday [Source 1][Source 3].
Expats should stay engaged with local news, employer communications, and community support channels to remain informed about evolving conditions and transportation adjustments during this period of unstable winter weather.
