Freezing Rain Causes Major Traffic Disruptions and Accidents in North Rhine-Westphalia

Icy roads from freezing rain led to highway closures, vehicle collisions, and injuries across the region, with conditions expected to improve by midday.

• Freezing rain has resulted in treacherous road conditions in North Rhine-Westphalia, causing numerous accidents and significant traffic disruptions.
• The A4 highway between Engelskirchen and Overath has been closed in both directions after accidents involving at least 20 vehicles, leaving three people with minor injuries.
• Police in Paderborn reported 35 ice-related accidents with seven injuries, while Bielefeld saw seven collisions during morning rush hour due to slick roads.
• The German Weather Service has warned of icy conditions, particularly in higher elevations and cold valleys, with improving temperatures expected to reduce risks by midday.
• Further freezing rain and icy conditions are possible overnight into Thursday, as temperatures are forecasted to drop to as low as minus three degrees Celsius.

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