Berlin's morning chaos as black ice paralyzes roads and transit
Berlin/Potsdam (dpa/bb) — Black ice caused by a mix of light snow and rain freezing on the bitterly cold ground led to disruptions on Berlin's roads Monday morning. Many streets were treacherously slick, slowing traffic to a crawl in numerous areas. The city's BVG buses were also affected, with some route sections temporarily closed due to icy conditions, according to the transport operator.
The Tiergarten Tunnel had to be cleared of ice, as reported by the Traffic Information Center (VIZ). "Because the road slopes downward into the tunnel, removing the ice is somewhat more complicated," officials explained.
Ice also delays underground trains
Icy overhead lines caused delays on several Berlin tram routes, while above-ground sections of the U2 and U3 subway lines experienced temporary disruptions due to ice on the power rails. A specialized BVG train was deployed to clear the frozen layers.
Despite the hazardous conditions, the number of traffic accidents remained relatively low. A police spokesperson noted only a slight increase in incidents, with 125 accident reports filed between nightfall and 11 a.m.—compared to 99 during the same period the previous week.
The German Weather Service (DWD) had issued warnings about black ice following the cold snap, particularly in the early morning. The Traffic Information Center urged caution: "Please move carefully—side streets and sidewalks are extremely slippery!" The ice warning was lifted as temperatures rose and thawing set in by mid-morning.
Police warn of deadly danger as thaw weakens frozen lakes
However, the warming trend has introduced a new hazard. Authorities are now warning against venturing onto frozen lakes, citing a serious risk of drowning. "Do not step onto the ice," police advised. As temperatures climb, frozen bodies of water rapidly lose their load-bearing capacity. "What appeared safe yesterday may already be deceptively thin and dangerous today."
Areas near shorelines and spots with currents are especially perilous. Parents are urged to supervise children near water and to caution others about the risks. "One step onto the ice could be one too many."
