The New Year's Eve weather across northern Germany is expected to be tumultuous, with strong storms and poor air quality caused by high levels of fine particulate pollution.
Residents of northern regions are advised against setting off fireworks as meteorologists warn of stormy conditions potentially disrupting celebrations. Lars Kirchhübel from the German Weather Service (DWD) cautioned against launching rockets, saying they could be deflected by strong winds, leading to dangerous situations such as fires or injuries.
Particularly along the coastal areas of Schleswig-Holstein, Hamburg, and parts of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, winds are forecasted to reach speeds of up to 130 km/h. Meanwhile, western regions like Nordrhein-Westfalen will experience cloudy skies with isolated rain, allowing for clearer views of fireworks where weather permits.
Despite the stormy forecast, some locations will still have opportunities for residents to enjoy the celebratory fireworks, especially where weather conditions are milder. Kirchhübel stated, “The cloud cover should not disturb the fireworks,” emphasizing the distinction between celebratory actions best reserved for the safety of residents amid adverse weather.
Health concerns have been raised due to high levels of particulate matter expected from fireworks. The DWD predicts increased air pollution, particularly around the areas from Eifel, Harz, and Lausitz extending to the Danube. Residents may experience worsened air quality, with the smell of sulfur indicating the heightened presence of fine dust associated with celebrations.
Due to the forecast, multiple public New Year's Eve events have been cancelled. Popular locations for celebratory fireworks along the coasts announced the cancellation of traditional displays, including on the island of Helgoland and the beach party at Westerland on Sylt, with similar cancellations occurring throughout Niedersachsen.
The DWD also highlighted public safety measures, urging people to avoid setting off fireworks near hospitals, churches, and homes made of reeds. Many revelers are advised to stay indoors as heavy rains and storms are predicted to persist through New Year’s Day.
Transport disruptions are unavoidable as well; various ferry services have been suspended due to the stormy conditions, with providers alerting travelers to check for cancellations and changes. Passengers traveling between Cuxhaven and Helgoland, or between the islands and the mainland, experienced significant setbacks due to inclement weather.
Chris Schrader, another meteorologist, described the weather conditions as “gloomy and wet across much of the country” for New Year’s Day, with heavy rain expected and wind gusts remaining strong throughout the day. He warned about the dangers associated with firework displays, particularly referencing the possibility of rockets veering off and causing serious accidents.
Schrader pointed out, “An overturned rocket can cause significant damage and injuries.” The public can expect to achieve some relief on January 2, as the weather is predicted to improve gradually, bringing occasional sun and less wind.
Looking back at 2024, Germany experienced one of the warmest years on record. A representative from the DWD noted, “This rapid climate change is becoming apparent,” particularly with temperatures averaging 10.9 degrees Celsius, surpassing previous records.
The trend of lengthy cloudy periods combined with sudden heavy rainfalls is indicative of shifting weather patterns, with rainfall recorded far above historical averages. Across the nation, analysis from the DWD reported over 903 liters of rain per square meter fell during the year, reflecting concern over climactic shifts.