What's the severity of the situation?
In the heart of Europe, Germany is currently grappling with the impacts of Storm "Zoltan." The severe weather event, now over the country, is bringing strong winds, storm surges, and heavy rain, causing significant disruptions to transportation.
According to the German Weather Service (DWD), regions in Baden-Württemberg, including Freiburg and Karlsruhe at altitudes above 1,000 meters, as well as Rhineland-Palatinate, are under a severe weather warning. The warning remains in effect until Saturday before Christmas at 6:00 AM.
The storm surge is not sparing the North Sea coast or the Elbe and Weser rivers. In Spiekeroog, a record gust of 140 km/h from storm "Zoltan" was measured, an extreme storm gust. The Feldberg in the Black Forest also experienced a gust of 141 km/h.
Due to the storm's relentless force, many ICE and IC trains on the Stuttgart/Basel route via Frankfurt to Hannover/Hamburg have been cancelled. There is a high risk of fallen trees, particularly on roads with heavily wooded sections, which could lead to disruptions in rail traffic if trees fall over and damage the overhead lines. Travelers are advised to plan extra time for their journeys.
ARD weather expert Tim Staeger, in an interview with Jenny Beyen, our website's current affairs moderator, advises against walks in the woods due to the risk of trees falling or branches breaking off, even after the storm has subsided. The Harz region, for instance, has already received up to 50 liters per square meter of rain, significantly more than a typical monthly total in December (70 to 80 liters per square meter).
Given the absence of up-to-date data on Storm Zoltan's weather situation, forecast, and precipitation amounts in Germany, it is recommended to consult official meteorological sources such as the Deutscher Wetterdienst (DWD) or trusted weather news platforms for the most current and precise information.
As the storm continues to rage, it is crucial for both drivers and train passengers to exercise caution and stay informed about the latest weather updates and travel advisories. Tim Staeger from the ARD Weather Competence Center urges extra caution for train and car travel.
Stay safe, and let's hope for a swift end to Storm "Zoltan's" destructive path across Germany.
The weather-forecasting from the German Weather Service (DWD) is crucial for understanding the severity and duration of Storm "Zoltan." Travelers should check official meteorological sources like the DWD or trusted weather news platforms for the latest weather updates and travel advisories.
