Massive snowdrift forces closure of Hasselkopftunnel in Braunlage
Heavy snowfall, also known as a snowdrift, caused a major disruption at the Hasselkopftunnel in Braunlage on Saturday evening. A massive snowdrift formed a dangerous overhang at the tunnel’s southern entrance, forcing authorities to close the B4/B242 route completely. Fire crews were called in to prevent a potential collapse onto the road below.
The fire chief arrived at the scene around 7 p.m. after reports of the snow buildup. Shortly after, the fire department deployed its turntable ladder to address the hazard. The overhang, measuring two to three metres thick, threatened to fall onto the carriageway.
Firefighters worked from the ladder’s rescue basket, carefully cutting away the unstable snow ledge. The operation lasted about an hour and a half before the site was deemed safe. Once the immediate risk was removed, the highway maintenance crew took over to clear the remaining snow from the road. Throughout the entire process, the tunnel stayed fully closed to traffic for safety reasons.
The fire brigade successfully stabilised the area before handing control to road maintenance teams. The tunnel remained shut until all snow was removed and the route was confirmed safe for vehicles. No injuries or further incidents were reported during the operation.
