Residents of Saxony faced significant challenges on Sunday as severe winter weather brought snow and ice across the region, leading to difficult travel conditions and disruptions to public events.
The German Weather Service (DWD) issued warnings for hazardous conditions, particularly emphasizing the Vogtland area, where heavy ice and snowfall were expected. Snowfall began early Sunday morning, quickly spreading eastward across the Free State, with forecasters predicting the potential for blizzard conditions in the Upper Lusatia and the East Erzgebirge, namely snowdrifts.
Traffic disruptions were reported widely, particularly on major highways. Due to icy conditions, multiple accidents occurred on the A4 and A72 motorways. A minor collision happened on the A4, resulting only in minor injuries to three people when their vehicle struck the guardrail and roadside sign. Fortunately, traffic was largely unaffected aside from initial delays.
The adverse weather led to the cancellation of public events, including the opening ceremony for Schwarzenberg’s 875th-anniversary celebrations. A giant puzzle event planned to commemorate the different districts of the city was scrapped due to safety concerns stemming from the icy roads.
Temperatures throughout the day ranged from -4 degrees Celsius in the morning, gradually rising to +4 degrees Celsius by afternoon, with mountain areas seeing lower highs. The warm front expected to hit the region following this cold snap may bring some respite, with forecasts indicating mild weather on Monday with temperatures anticipated between 8 and 12 degrees.
Despite the forecast of milder temperatures, icy conditions from freezing rain remained possible at night. The potential for freezing rain led officials to warn drivers and pedestrians to remain vigilant, particularly as rain forecast for the evening might freeze on existing ice patches, exacerbated by fluctuated temperatures.
The DWD maintained high alert status throughout Sunday, indicating risks of slippery roads were persistent. A level 2 warning on the DWD scale signified minor to moderate hazards due to ice across the state, extending to areas outside the Vogtland, highlighting risks for motorists on major routes.
Reports emerged of multiple traffic incidents linked to the icy conditions. Notably, on the A4 between Wüstenbrand and Limbach-Oberfrohna, authorities were compelled to implement temporary road closures as precautionary measures. Local police reported no serious injuries but advised all drivers to exercise caution, especially under freezing rain conditions.
Throughout the Freistaat, residents were urged to avoid non-essential travel. With New Year's festivities fast approaching, community organizers expressed concerns how unpredictable weather might impact holiday plans, reigniting memories from previous winters of cancellations and hazardous travel.
By evening, light rain began to fall; though initially mild, temperatures were expected to drop again overnight. The DWD’s forecasts for the upcoming days suggest another round of mixed precipitation, including possible rain and snow. While Monday is anticipated to warm, the subsequent days could see repeated weather fluctuations.
Overall, the winter weather has posed significant challenges for Saxony, with safety warnings remaining active. The community is reminded of the pressing need to stay informed and cautious as the winter season fully settles. Local authorities remain on standby to manage incidents and respond to any emergencies as weather conditions change rapidly.