Weather conditions on Epiphany across Southern Germany were marked by the aftermath of snowfall and ensuing rain, causing significant complications for travelers and commuters. While disruptions were noted primarily at airports and on roads due to icy surfaces, the situation did not escalate to the chaos many had feared.
According to reports from dpa, the snow and wet conditions led to flight cancellations and delays at Munich Airport. Despite this, by mid-morning, the airport's operations began to stabilize. Several flights had already been canceled the day before as airlines took precautionary measures according to the weather forecasts. Passengers experienced some delays as aircraft needed de-icing before takeoff, and visibility intermittently affected the rhythm of arrivals and departures.
The icy conditions also played havoc on the roads, yet fortunately, major accidents were largely avoided. Authorities reported minor accidents involving fender benders rather than serious collisions. Early reports indicated about twenty weather-related accidents had occurred since 7:00 AM, with varying numbers reported across different police districts. For example, the police noted five incidents in northern Oberbayern and approximately ten each for southern Oberbayern and Mittelfranken. Only minor injuries were recorded.
It wasn't all bad news, as some areas enjoyed relatively serene conditions. For example, the conditions improved significantly as the weekend progressed, with residents advised by the German Weather Service (DWD) to take precautions when traveling outdoors. The latter issued warnings primarily for the southeastern regions of Bavaria, which shifted northward as temperatures fluctuated throughout the day.
One particularly notable incident occurred near Aiglsbach, where a truck loaded with oranges skidded off the road due to icy conditions. It required several hours for the authorities to remove the vehicle, causing traffic delays along Bundesstraße 300.
Nonetheless, the overall sentiment among the police was one of relief; they remarked on the responsible conduct of drivers. A spokesperson from the Lower Bavaria police mentioned, 'People seem to be driving sensibly.' Most drivers heeded the weather warnings, resulting in fewer incidents than might otherwise have been expected.
Rail travel throughout Bavaria remained relatively unaffected, with operations continuing without major disruptions. A spokesperson for the railway asserted, 'Train travel in Bavaria is rolling,' indicating services were largely running as scheduled with only isolated disturbances noted.
Looking forward, weather forecasts indicated changes on the horizon, with temperatures expected to rise yet again on the following Monday. The DWD predicted significant variations, from chilly 3-degree days expected in parts of Lower Bavaria to much warmer 13 degrees anticipated for Mainfranken. On the Dreikönigstag, sunny spells coupled with clouds were expected across the southeast, providing residents with some respite from the winter chill.
Overall, the Epiphany holiday brought with it the typical unpredictability of winter weather, but thankfully, with prompt responses from authorities and how prepared the public seemed to be, the disruptions were kept to a manageable level.