Maritime Authority Warns of Ice Formation Along the Baltic Coast - Baltic Sea ice warning puts mariners on high alert until late April
A new ice warning has been issued for parts of the Baltic Sea. The alert covers sheltered coastal areas from Flensburg to the German-Polish border and remains in place until the end of April. Authorities are urging mariners to take extra precautions as freezing temperatures create hazardous conditions.
The Waterways and Shipping Authority confirmed that new ice has formed in protected zones, including Flensburg, the Schlei inlet, and Rostock’s city harbour. Other affected spots are Barth, Greifswald-Wiek, and the Peene River estuary. These areas, such as lagoons and harbour basins, see less wind exposure and slower water movement, making them more prone to freezing.
Vessels are advised to navigate icy waters only if properly equipped. Buoys in the region may have shifted or capsized due to ice, adding to the risks. The warning does not name specific shipping companies but stresses that all mariners should prepare for possible delays and disruptions. With cold weather persisting, existing ice is unlikely to melt soon. Further ice formation is expected in the coming weeks, extending the period of difficult navigation.
The warning highlights the need for caution in affected Baltic Sea areas until late April. Mariners must check their vessels’ readiness for icy conditions and stay alert for displaced navigational aids. The situation will be monitored as temperatures remain low.
