Life-threatening: Entry onto ice surfaces in the Harz is prohibited - Harz Mountains freeze over—but authorities warn the ice is deadly
Authorities have issued an urgent warning about frozen lakes and reservoirs in the Harz Mountains. The ice may look solid, but officials say it remains dangerously unsafe. Stepping onto these surfaces is now strictly forbidden.
The Harz Water Board and the DLRG have stressed that only authorised agencies can declare ice safe for use. Some local councils rely on volunteer fire brigades to assess conditions, but no official approval has been given yet. Warning signs have been posted around the water bodies.
The ice appears deceptively stable, yet its thickness varies due to changing water levels, currents, and operational activity. Even areas that seem safe could collapse underfoot. Visitors must stay well back from the edges and avoid any contact with the frozen surfaces.
Access to the ice remains completely prohibited. Authorities will only allow entry once thorough safety checks confirm stability. Until then, anyone ignoring the warnings puts themselves at serious risk.
