Major Cities Brace for Winter Chill and Black Ice
Alright, folks, get ready for a frosty start to the week! As winter continues its grip, snow and potentially tricky black ice are set to hit major German cities on Monday.
Why the chill? Blame it on a weather system known as 'Oliver,' currently sweeping across the country. Above 200 meters, expect snow, while below that, it's mainly sleet. The mercury drops further on Tuesday, with frost, ice, and snow painting a winter wonderland across most of Germany, barring the southwest and Bavaria, where it'll be just above freezing.
As weather expert Brandt puts it, "Face the facts: The far west in NRW will see sleet. So, buckle up, invest in good winter tires, and plan extra time in your schedule. Or else, you're in for a rough ride. It's going to remain frosty and wintry until St. Nicholas, with more snow on the horizon at the weekend."
The cold front brings a real mix of weather conditions, with temperatures dropping to -2 degrees in the north-east and a balmy 4 degrees in the south-west. The north is a swirl of sunlight and clouds, with snow showers along the coastlines.
A Wintry Welcome to the Week
In the Thuringian Forest, winter hikers and cross-country skiers are rejoicing as snow deepens to 22 cm, with the German Weather Service predicting more hefty snowfall for Monday and Tuesday.
Meanwhile, in Rhineland-Palatinate and Saarland, prepare for slippery roads due to snowfall and sleet, with forecasters warning of up to 20cm of snow in the Westerwald and slush at lower altitudes.
For those in Saxony-Anhalt, the week starts with rain and snow in some areas, leading to slippery conditions and icy roads. In Saxony, keep an eye out for light rain or sleet in some spots, with snowfall in the mountains, potentially becoming widespread.
As winter conditions grip major German cities, heed this essential advice:
- Ensure car maintenance: Check your battery, tires, fluid levels, brakes, and lights to guarantee your winter travel is safe and secure.
- Carry an emergency kit: Stock up on essentials like flashlights, jumper cables, blankets, water, snacks, a first aid kit, and a shovel for your winter survival kit.
- Adopt safe driving habits: Steer well below your usual speed, leave a safe distance between you and other vehicles, and maintain excellent visibility by keeping your windshield and windows clear.
- Watch for black ice: Proceed with caution as black ice can be treacherous and difficult to spot, especially on overpasses and bridges.
- Practice caution and preparedness: Stay equipped and prepared in case unfortunate situations arise, like vehicle breakdowns or harsh weather conditions.
By following these tips, you'll minimize the risks associated with driving in winter conditions, especially given the potential for black ice and snow in major German cities. Stay safe, and happy travels!
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