Germany Faces Stormy Start to 2025 with Rain, Snow, and Strong Winds

Northern and central regions experience severe weather disruptions, while colder temperatures and snowfall are forecast across higher altitudes.

The new year began with heavy storms in northern Germany, including wind speeds of up to 100 km/h in coastal areas and disruptions to ferry and train services.
The German Weather Service (DWD) issued warnings for orkanartige Böen (hurricane-force gusts) in regions like the Brocken in the Harz and Fichtelberg in Saxony, advising caution outdoors.
Rain, snow, and icy conditions are expected to spread southward, with snowfall predicted in higher altitudes and potential glacial hazards in mountainous areas like the Alps and Erzgebirge.
Meteorologists noted an unusual overnight shift in weather models, forecasting colder-than-expected temperatures and significant snowfall in some regions through January.
Residents are advised to prepare for hazardous road conditions, especially in elevated areas, as freezing rain and snow showers are expected to continue into the weekend.