Germany, Poland: Adverse winter weather forecast across Germany and Poland through at least Jan. 30

Event

Heavy snowfall, ice, and strong winds are forecast across Germany and Poland through at least Jan. 30. As of Jan. 28, the Deutscher Wetterdienst has issued orange (second-highest on a four-tier scale) wind warnings across northeastern and far southern Germany. Orange ice warnings are in place over southwestern Baden-Wurttemberg State while orange snowfall warnings are in effect for far southeastern Bavaria State. Additionally, yellow warnings for ice, low temperatures, and strong winds are in effect for the rest of Germany.

The Poland Institute of Meteorology and Water Management has issued orange blizzard warnings for far southern Poland and yellow ice and strong wind warnings for the rest of Poland Jan. 28. Red strong wind warnings are in place for coastal areas in northern Poland Jan. 29 while orange strong wind warnings are in place for the rest of the affected area Jan. 29-30. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts could lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Sporadic power outages are possible throughout the affected area.

Transport
The winter weather could cause ground and air transport disruptions in the region over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Difficult and dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roads in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports.

Advice

Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. Plan accordingly for delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

MeteoAlarm
Deutscher Wetterdienst (German)
Poland Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (Polish)