Germany: Adverse winter weather forecast across much of the country through at least Jan. 10

Adverse winter weather conditions are forecast across much of Germany through at least Jan. 10. A mix of rain, snow, and sleet is expected across southern parts of the country Jan. 8, with heavy snowfall likely in mountainous areas and thunderstorms possible in places. Persistent rainfall is forecast in isolated pockets of southwestern and western Germany and strong winds are likely in northern regions. A broad swath of snow is expected to move eastwards over the center of the country late Jan. 8-9. Sleet, snow, hail, and gusty winds are forecast in eastern and northern regions Jan. 10, as well as snowfall in southeastern regions. Hazardous travel conditions are likely due to reduced visibility and slippery roads. Flooding is possible in areas where persistent rainfall occurs. Sporadic power outages are likely throughout the affected areas.

As of Jan. 8, the German Meteorological Service (DWD) has issued the following weather warnings across the country:

• Orange snowfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Parts of central Baden-Wurttemberg, southeastern Bavaria, northwestern and western Hesse, southern North Rhine-Westphalia, and northern Rhineland-Palatinate states.

• Orange heavy rainfall warnings: Much of Saarland and parts of southwestern Baden-Wurttemberg and western Rhineland-Palatinate states.

• Orange strong wind warnings: Across northern coastal areas and parts of southwestern and western Baden-Wurttemberg and southwestern Bavaria states.

• Yellow snowfall warnings: Across parts of central, eastern, southern, and western Germany.

• Yellow strong wind warnings: Across much of northern Germany.

• Yellow black ice warnings: Parts of south-central and western Lower Saxony, northern North Rhine-Westphalia, northwestern and western Saxony, south-central Saxony-Anhalt, and southeastern Thuringia states.

• Yellow frost warnings: Across much of central, eastern, northern, and western Germany.

Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions in the region over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Dangerous and challenging 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.