Germany, Austria: Adverse winter weather forecast through at least Dec. 24

Event

Ice, frost, and low temperatures are forecast across Germany and Austria through at least Dec. 24. The Deutscher Wetterdienst in Germany has issued orange (second-highest on a four-tier scale) frost and black ice warnings across far southern and far eastern Bavaria and northwestern Bremen states through Dec. 23. Yellow frost warnings are in place over the rest of Germany. The Austria Central Institute for Meteorology and Geodynamics has issued orange cold stress warnings across southeastern Salzburg and Tyrol states through Dec. 23. Yellow black ice and cold stress warnings are in place across the rest of Austria through Dec. 24. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

Transport
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. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways 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)
Austria Central Institute for Meteorology and Geodynamics (German)