Storm "Zoltan" may have retreated, but its impact was significant in northern Germany on Friday morning. Rail commuters faced delays, with several ferries in the north not operating and Hamburg's subway trains running slower. Lower Saxony saw icy roads, and the German Weather Service (DWD) was investigating a suspected tornado in Cologne, with no confirmation as yet.
In Cologne, the DWD is investigating whether a tornado occurred in the district of Poll. The investigation is ongoing, and there's no concrete proof at the moment. Residents reported witnessing a tornado during the night from Thursday to Friday, which initially classified the event as "suspected."
Traffic in Hamburg was finally given the all-clear after the severe storm surge peak, with interior authorities expressing satisfaction. Despite that, the city's fire department reported 170 storm and water-related operations without any reported injuries.
The storm caused a significant impact on train services, leading to numerous cancellations and delays. Long-distance and regional services were affected throughout Germany—but especially the north—with many passengers unable to disembark. As a result, train travelers were required to show immense patience.
Despite rail disruptions, Deutsche Bahn expects busier trains for the Christmas weekend, as those who had to postpone their journey due to the storm will be back. The rail service advised passengers to verify their journeys using the "DB Navigator" app or visit bahn.de before departing. Tickets and seat reservations can be refunded in these circumstances.
In Hamburg, the heavy storm surge pushed floodwaters ashore, causing devastation. The fish market was completely submerged, along with surrounding roads. The water was waist-high in some places, and several cars remained flooded. Emergency services were deployed following the forecast of severe storm surge, with sirens and messages sent to warn residents.
Federal Minister of the Interior Nancy Faeser thanked the emergency services for their work during the storm, calling for increased respect and recognition for police, rescue workers, and volunteers faced with hostility and attacks.
In Belgium, a woman was killed in a storm episode at a Christmas market in Oudenaarde when a 20-meter-high fir tree fell on her due to a strong gust of wind, while another woman died in the Netherlands due to being hit by a falling tree while cycling.
The storm also caused strong winds on the coast, with gale-force gusts potentially exceeding 100 kilometers per hour in the evening. Further restrictions and repairs on some routes are anticipated, according to Deutsche Bahn.
