23 Jun 2017 | 08:36 AM UTC
Germany: Rail disrupts in Hamburg region June 23 /update 1
Long distance trains to/from Hamburg facing disruptions June 23 following overnight storm; confirm reservations
Event
Trees felled by a storm that struck overnight June 22-23 are causing transportation disruptions as of Friday, June 23. Deutsche Bahn (DB), the national rail operator, issued a warning regarding delays on long distance trains between Hamburg and Berlin, Bieslefeld, Dresden, Hamm, and Hanover. Metronom, a regional train provider in the northwest, announced that the line between Uelzen and Lüneburg has been closed and is not expected to reopen until at least 12:00 (local time); residual disruptions are likely following the resumption of services.
Rain is forecast for Friday, but no further severe weather is forecast.
Context
Violent winds and heavy rain struck northern Germany beginning on Thursday, June 22. A tornado was reported near Hamburg. One person was killed in Uelzen, Lower Saxony, after a car was hit by a tree branch; a second death was reported near Hanover when a car hit a fallen tree on a highway.
Advice
Individuals in the above areas are advised to confirm rail schedules, allow additional time to travel, and adhere to any advice issued by the regional authorities.