Get ready for a wintry weekend in Bavaria, as Christmas markets pop up and the German Weather Service (DWD) forecasts snow and icy roads. On Saturday, the Alps will witness significant snowfall, while the rest of Bavaria will be drenched with rain and sleet. The DWD advises preparations for a "small onset of winter."
The lowlands will stay chilly, featuring a mix of showers, snow, and sleet. Although the snow might not stick around for long, temperatures will remain low, with daytime highs hovering between zero and five degrees and nighttime frost expected. The sun will remain elusive, only occasionally making an appearance, while wind gusts may reach 50 kilometers per hour by showers. Winds could increase to an impressive 80 kilometers per hour in the Alps.
Winter sports enthusiasts have reason to rejoice, as "quite considerable amounts of fresh snow" have blanketed the Alps. The DWD predicts an additional 10 centimeters of snowfall in the Alps' foothills and up to 25 centimeters at higher elevations. On the other hand, the lowlands are predicted to experience sleet or rain.
The snowy conditions have already claimed their victims; on Saturday morning, a truck skidded and crashed into a barrier on the Bavarian Autobahn 8, which had to be closed for a while due to the diesel leakage. Another accident occurred in Selb, Upper Franconia, where a driver lost control of his truck in slush, crashing into a tree, but thankfully no one was harmed.
These wintry conditions will persist into the near future, according to the DWD. The temperatures may barely improve on Monday. Get prepared for the unpredictable changing weather and festive holidays in Bavaria during this weekend.
Remember, the upcoming Munich Security Conference will draw international foreign and security policy officials and require increased security in the area.
Be vigilant while navigating the snowy and icy roads in Bavaria this weekend. Even with gritting efforts, road safety remains a concern due to the heavy snowfall and public service strikes. Drive safely and enjoy the festive atmosphere while making the most of the winter weather.
