Poland battles extreme winter storms with snow, ice and high winds
Winter weather has brought hazardous conditions across Poland this weekend. Heavy snow, sleet and freezing drizzle have affected nine voivodeships, while icy patches and fog have made travel difficult in several regions. Authorities are warning drivers to take extra care as winds strengthen and temperatures hover near freezing.
Over the past 24 hours, snow or sleet has fallen in nine voivodeships, with freezing drizzle reported in seven. The Warmian-Masurian and Lubusz regions have seen icy patches, while dense fog has reduced visibility in Silesia and Łódź. Poland’s National Roads Authority (GDDKiA) confirmed that all national roads remain passable, though conditions are challenging in places.
To keep routes safe, 1,135 winter maintenance units have been working across the country. Despite their efforts, GDDKiA has urged drivers to exercise extreme caution, particularly in areas with difficult road conditions. Sunday’s forecast predicts heavy cloud cover, scattered snow and sleet, with maximum temperatures struggling to rise above 0°C to 2°C. Winds will pick up, reaching 45 km/h in the eastern half of Poland and the north, with gusts up to 80 km/h. Mountain areas face even greater risks, as the Carpathians could see gusts of 120 km/h, while the Sudetes may experience winds of 80 km/h. The Karkonosze and Lower Silesia regions, including Szklarska Poręba and Śnieżka/Śnieżnik, have received fresh snow in recent weeks. Sudeten mountain resorts in southwestern Poland also reported measurable snow depths, following a snowfall around 24 December 2025.
The combination of snow, ice, fog and strong winds is creating dangerous travel conditions. Drivers are advised to check road updates and adjust their plans if necessary. With maintenance crews active and forecasts remaining severe, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
