Storm Elli is sweeping across Germany with a dangerous combination of heavy snow, freezing rain and gale-force winds, triggering rare, urgent warnings from the German Weather Service for people to stay indoors as conditions deteriorate from Thursday afternoon into the weekend.

The fast-developing winter system is already disrupting transport on the ground and in the air, forcing school closures, causing accidents on icy roads and sharply curtailing travel plans across one of Europe’s busiest winter tourism markets.

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Severe Weather Front Moves In From Thursday Afternoon

Meteorologists describe Storm Elli as a powerful winter storm pushing across northern and central Europe and intensifying as it crosses Germany from west to east.

From late Thursday afternoon, forecasters expect a rapid onset of severe conditions, with snow bands quickly building over the north and northeast while a hazardous corridor of freezing rain forms further south.

Forecasters warn that the storm’s uneven structure will create sharply different conditions over relatively short distances, catching some travellers and residents off guard if they are on the road when the worst of the weather hits.

The German Weather Service has issued multiple severe weather alerts, including high-level warnings for heavy snowfall, snowdrifts, ice and storm-force gusts in exposed regions.

In some areas, especially from Bremen through Hanover toward Berlin, meteorologists warn of a transition zone where snow turns to freezing rain, coating every surface in a layer of ice.

Authorities in several federal states have urged people to complete essential errands early on Thursday and avoid staying outdoors later in the day when winds strengthen and precipitation intensifies.

Elsewhere, particularly in higher ground and coastal zones, gusts can reach up to 130 kilometres per hour, prompting officials to warn against forest walks and mountain excursions, where trees and branches loaded with snow may suddenly fall.

The storm is expected to continue deep into the night and into Friday, with conditions fluctuating but remaining severe enough in many regions to keep residents largely confined to their homes.

Snowfall, Ice and a Sharp Drop in Temperatures

Forecasters expect widespread snowfall to become the defining feature of Storm Elli, with up to 25 centimetres of fresh snow in parts of northern and northeastern Germany.

In these regions, strong winds will whip freshly fallen snow into deep drifts that can accumulate within minutes, rapidly blocking smaller roads and making highways treacherous.

Urban centres such as Hamburg and cities across Lower Saxony and Mecklenburg Western Pomerania are preparing for extended snow clearance operations and possible power disruptions if heavy, wet snow weighs down power lines and trees.

In western and southwestern Germany, the situation is more mixed, with snow changing over to heavy rain in some valleys.

While this limits accumulation, it creates a different set of issues: slushy, slippery surfaces, localised flooding as drains struggle to cope, and rapidly changing traction for vehicles.

This contrast adds complexity for long-distance drivers who may encounter several different hazard types in a single journey.

Once the storm’s main precipitation shield passes, temperatures are forecast to plunge. Overnight from Saturday to Sunday, parts of Saxony could see readings near minus 20 degrees Celsius, with large parts of the country dropping well below freezing.

Meteorologists stress that such deep cold will render standard road salt largely ineffective, leaving packed snow and ice in place for longer and turning untreated surfaces into solid sheets of ice.

These conditions could persist into early next week, even as models suggest a brief midweek thaw before temperatures potentially dive again.

Road, Rail and Air Travel Braced for Major Disruption

Transport operators across Germany are warning of substantial disruption as Storm Elli peaks. Road authorities report a growing number of weather-related accidents, especially in areas that have already seen freezing rain and black ice in the days leading up to the storm’s arrival.

Some motorways and regional roads are expected to experience temporary standstills when snowdrifts form faster than they can be cleared, particularly overnight when visibility is reduced and traffic volumes are lower but risk is higher.

Rail operators are preparing for restrictions on both regional and long-distance services as snow accumulation, iced-over switches and fallen branches or trees interfere with lines.

Experience from previous winter storms suggests that partial suspensions and reduced speeds are likely, especially in open stretches where drifting snow can bury tracks.

Travellers are being advised to expect delays, cancellations and occasional last-minute re-routing, and to carry warm clothing, food and water if they must travel.

At airports, including Berlin Brandenburg, heavy snowfall and persistent low temperatures are already affecting flight operations. Runways, taxiways and apron areas require continuous clearing and de-icing, while aircraft must be thoroughly de-iced and treated with protective fluid before departure.

Airport operators describe these safety measures as time-consuming but essential, warning passengers to anticipate significant delays and possible cancellations as the storm moves through.

Airlines are encouraging customers to check their flight status frequently and to allow extra time for winter conditions on access roads and public transport.

Authorities Urge Residents to Stay Indoors

The German Weather Service has taken the unusual step of explicitly urging residents in the hardest-hit regions not to leave their homes during the peak of Storm Elli unless absolutely necessary.

In cities such as Berlin, Potsdam and across Brandenburg, official guidance emphasises avoiding outdoor activities from the early hours of Friday through at least early Saturday, when the combination of drifting snow, ice and strong winds will pose a particular threat to pedestrians and drivers alike.

Hospitals and emergency services in several states are already under pressure from a surge in weather-related injuries caused by previous episodes of black ice, including broken bones, head injuries and concussions from falls.

Medical staff are asking the public to minimise risky trips by foot and to look out for vulnerable neighbours who might otherwise attempt to shop or attend appointments in hazardous conditions.

In some areas, officials recommend using traction devices on footwear and prioritising short, essential walks over any recreational outings.

Local governments have also activated crisis teams to coordinate snow-clearing operations, manage public transport adjustments and respond to power outages.

Residents are being encouraged to keep mobile phones charged, prepare flashlights, and store basic food and water supplies in case power cuts or impassable streets temporarily cut neighbourhoods off from services.

While authorities stress that the situation is being closely monitored, they underscore that individual decisions to stay indoors will be crucial in reducing accidents and enabling emergency crews to focus on the most serious incidents.

Impact on Tourism and Winter Travel Plans

For domestic and international travellers, Storm Elli is hitting at a busy moment in Germany’s winter calendar, affecting both business trips and leisure visits to cities and ski regions.

Popular urban destinations such as Berlin, Munich, Hamburg and Cologne face a difficult few days, as landmarks, museums and shopping streets remain technically open but increasingly difficult to access due to transport disruption and hazardous walking conditions.

Many visitors are choosing to delay sightseeing, focusing instead on staying warm and safe until the worst of the storm passes.

In alpine and low mountain regions, including parts of Bavaria and Baden Württemberg, the influx of snow may initially appeal to winter sports enthusiasts.

However, officials warn that the storm’s volatility, strong winds and extreme cold will likely force temporary closures of some ski lifts and trails. High winds can make chairlifts unsafe, while blizzard-like conditions drastically reduce visibility on slopes.

Avalanche risk assessments are also expected to change rapidly, requiring close coordination between resort operators and mountain rescue services.

Travel agencies and online booking platforms report an uptick in customers seeking to rebook or postpone journeys scheduled for the coming days.

Flexible ticket conditions introduced by airlines and rail companies in recent years are now being tested as travellers adapt plans around the storm’s path.

Tourism boards are advising visitors to remain flexible, stay informed through local news and official channels, and consider alternative activities that do not involve extensive travel, such as enjoying indoor cultural venues once it is safe to move around within cities.

Preparing and Staying Safe for Those Already in Germany

For people currently in Germany, whether residents or visitors, authorities and safety experts emphasise a few key measures to reduce risk during Storm Elli.

Those who must travel are urged to check real-time information on road conditions, public transport schedules and airport operations, and to build extra time into every journey.

Carrying winter essentials such as warm layers, gloves, hats and sturdy, non-slip footwear is strongly recommended, even for short trips, given the possibility of sudden weather changes and delays.

Drivers are asked to ensure their vehicles are equipped with winter tyres, adequate antifreeze and a nearly full fuel tank. An emergency kit containing blankets, snacks, water and a phone charger can prove critical if traffic comes to a standstill or if a vehicle becomes stuck in snow.

Motorists should be prepared to abandon non-essential journeys if police or road authorities close sections of motorway or advise against travel, and should never attempt to drive around barriers or ignore warnings about closed routes or mountain passes.

Those staying indoors are advised to keep living spaces heated, but also to ventilate briefly to prevent moisture build-up, and to check in on elderly or isolated neighbours by phone or in person when conditions allow.

Keeping electronic devices charged and having battery-powered lighting on hand can mitigate the impact of any power interruption.

For families with children, planning indoor activities and explaining the reasons for remaining inside can help manage expectations as outdoor plans and school schedules are upended by the storm.

Outlook for the Coming Days

While Storm Elli is expected to deliver its most intense impacts between Thursday afternoon and Saturday, the aftermath could last much longer.

Deep cold forecast for Sunday and early next week will slow the melting of snow and ice, extending the period of difficult travel and heightening the risk of burst pipes and heating failures in poorly insulated buildings.

Local authorities anticipate that snow-clearing operations on secondary roads and footpaths may take several days, especially in rural communities with limited equipment.

Weather models currently suggest that the extreme cold may give way to a brief spell of milder temperatures, potentially approaching low double digits above freezing in parts of western and central Germany.

However, this apparent relief could bring its own set of issues, such as slush, flooding from snowmelt and renewed freezing if temperatures then fall again overnight.

Meteorologists caution that a renewed plunge into bitter cold is possible after this short warm phase, extending winter’s grip well beyond the immediate life cycle of Storm Elli.

For travellers and residents alike, the message over the coming week is to remain vigilant and flexible. Conditions can vary significantly not only between federal states but even across short distances within metropolitan areas.

Continual monitoring of official warnings and a willingness to adjust or cancel trips at short notice will be essential to staying safe and avoiding unnecessary strain on emergency and transport services.

FAQ

Q1: How long will Storm Elli affect travel in Germany?
The most severe impacts are expected from Thursday afternoon through Saturday, but lingering snow and ice, followed by deep cold, could continue to disrupt travel well into early next week as roads and rail infrastructure take time to fully recover.

Q2: Which regions of Germany are expected to be hardest hit?
Northern and northeastern states, including Lower Saxony, Hamburg, Brandenburg, Berlin and Mecklenburg Western Pomerania, face some of the heaviest snow and drifting, while a corridor from Bremen through Hanover toward Berlin is particularly at risk from freezing rain and extreme ice.

Q3: Is it safe to drive during the storm if my car has winter tyres?
Winter tyres significantly improve safety but do not eliminate the dangers posed by heavy snow, black ice and poor visibility. Authorities are advising against non-essential driving in affected regions, especially overnight, regardless of vehicle equipment.

Q4: How are airports in Germany preparing for Storm Elli?
Airports have activated winter operations plans that include continuous clearing of runways and taxiways, extensive use of de-icing agents and dedicated teams for de-icing aircraft. Even with these measures, delays and cancellations are likely due to safety requirements and reduced capacity.

Q5: Will public transport within cities continue to run?
Urban public transport systems such as trams, buses and suburban rail will strive to maintain service, but routes may be curtailed, frequencies reduced and sections temporarily suspended where snowdrifts, ice or fallen branches block lines or roads.

Q6: What should travellers do if their train or flight is cancelled?
Travellers should contact their airline or rail operator as soon as possible to rebook, keep receipts for any unexpected expenses where compensation policies apply, and secure accommodation early in case many passengers are stranded at once in major hubs.

Q7: How can pedestrians reduce their risk of injury on icy streets?
Safety experts recommend wearing shoes with good grip, using traction aids where possible, taking shorter steps, avoiding rushed movements and choosing well-cleared, well-lit routes while avoiding parks, forests and unmaintained paths during strong winds and heavy snow.

Q8: Are schools and public institutions closing because of Storm Elli?
Several regions have preemptively announced school closures or remote learning for affected days, and some public offices may shorten opening hours or move services online depending on local conditions and decisions by municipal authorities.

Q9: What preparations are recommended for people staying at home?
Residents are advised to stock basic food and water, ensure they have necessary medications, charge electronic devices, keep flashlights and batteries available, and maintain adequate heating while monitoring local news and official alerts.

Q10: Is it advisable to travel to Germany for tourism during the peak of the storm?
Visitors who have not yet started their trip are encouraged to consider postponing or adjusting their travel dates. Those already in the country should limit long-distance journeys, focus on indoor activities and follow the guidance of local authorities until conditions stabilise.