Heavy snow forces school evacuations and event cancellations in Central Franconia
Heavy snowfall in Central Franconia has pushed emergency services and local authorities to their limits. Several buildings, including schools and public halls, faced closures or evacuations due to excessive snow loads on their roofs.
In Roßtal, firefighters were called to the middle school after the snow on its roof surpassed the safe limit of 20 centimetres. Concerns grew so severe that the building was evacuated over fears of collapse. A structural engineer from Nuremberg, Thomas Müller, assessed the snow's weight and density on January 28. His findings revealed the load was lighter than expected, ruling out an immediate risk of structural failure. Crews then used a turntable ladder and fall protection gear to clear the snow from the roof.
The Eichwaldhalle in Puschendorf was also shut down due to heavy snow, forcing the cancellation of scheduled events. One such event, 'Insects in Transition', has now been rearranged for Thursday, January 30, at 7 p.m. in the community centre on Kirchplatz.
Elsewhere, Veitsbronn's primary school gymnasium and the gym at the former middle school remain closed. Wilhermsdorf's indoor pool will stay shut until at least Sunday, as officials monitor the strain on its roof.
The recent snowfall has disrupted daily life across the region, with multiple facilities still inaccessible. Rescheduled events, like the talk in Puschendorf, will proceed once safety checks are complete. Authorities continue to assess risks as the situation develops.
