Karneval 2025 will kick off under challenging weather conditions as the celebrations get underway on Weiberfastnacht, February 27. An Atlantic low-pressure system, nicknamed Storm Rainer, is set to bring cold temperatures, rain, and possibly even some snow to the region of North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), causing concern among carnival-goers.
According to weather forecaster Kathy Schrey from wetter.net, the festive season will not begin with sunny skies. Instead, residents and visitors can anticipate overcast conditions and precipitation as temperatures hover between 6 and 9 degrees Celsius during the day, dropping to around 1-4 degrees at night. The arrival of Storm Rainer could trigger not only rain but also graupel showers and localized thunderstorms, particularly around 11:11 AM on Weiberfastnacht, traditionally considered the kickoff moment for the carnival celebration.
On the brighter side, local forecasts are hinting at improved weather conditions for the following days, particularly on Rosenmontag (February 3), which is typically marked by large parades and celebrations. After enduring what is expected to be chilly and wet conditions at the beginning of the festivities, there may be sunnier spells later on.
Interestingly, meteorologists were caught off guard by the recent weather models predicting significant changes heading toward the carnival weekend. Dominik Jung, another esteemed meteorologist from wetter.net, shared unexpected optimism, stating, "An extreme weather turnaround is set for the celebration days. It could feel almost spring-like by Rosenmontag, with temperatures rising to 15 degrees Celsius and ample sunshine expected!" This surprising shift suggests carnival-goers might enjoy favorable weather as the events progress.
Weather forecasts for the upcoming week vary from day-to-day. On February 28, the weather will remain unstable with temperatures between 4 and 8 degrees. While Friday could still see some showers, especially earlier on, conditions are predicted to clear as the weekend approaches. Saturday promises to be mostly dry with temperatures reaching similar highs of 6 to 9 degrees. By Sunday, festivities could continue under pleasant conditions with maximum temperatures stabilizing around 9 degrees throughout NRW.
Rosenmontag, the highlight of the carnival, looks even brighter according to the most recent forecasts. With high pressure moving over Germany, weather models indicate possible dry conditions alongside sunshine. Highs could reach up to 10-15 degrees Celsius, providing ideal conditions for the parades and street parties. Residents are preparing for one of the largest traditional festivities, with expectations of up to 1.5 million attendees flooding the streets of Cologne to partake in the festivities.
The detailed weather outlook for the carnival days indicates fluctuations typical of early spring, with the possibility of light frost and even some snowfall earlier. Such changes may create tricky conditions for morning celebrations but should stabilize as the events progress.
Overall, the upcoming Weiberfastnacht festivities will begin on less than stellar weather terms as cold fronts loom, but the anticipated shift suggests greater enjoyment as carnival week conquers its way through the calendar. The festive spirit of the Kölner Jecken remains undeterred as they brace for another exciting chapter of revelry adorned with colorful costumes and jubilant celebrations.
Whether spectators or participants, everyone’s eyes will be peeled back toward the skies as they revel and await the changes…”