A cold snap grips Europe as Storm Elli unleashes harsh weather conditions across the continent, paralleling the freezing temperatures and snowfall brought by Storm Goretti in the UK.
In Germany, where temperatures are set to plummet to -30 degrees, Hamburg authorities have enforced a temporary ban on burials due to frozen ground making grave digging nearly impossible. This extreme weather has not only disrupted funeral plans but also wreaked havoc on transportation systems nationwide, with the national railway operator Deutsche Bahn warning of unfeasible long-distance train travel under the hazardous conditions.
Furthermore, adverse weather conditions forced the Christian Democrat Union (CDU) political party in Germany to cancel its first major event of the year. A party spokesperson explained that the cancellation was necessary due to severe weather warnings, associated risks, and anticipated cancellations of trains and flights.
The German national meteorological service, DWD, issued a statement cautioning about new snowfall expected to blanket regions, including Bavaria, with snowfall amounts ranging from three to 15 centimeters within specific timeframes.
While Storm Elli impacts Germany and France with strong winds and snow, the UK faces Storm Goretti’s wrath. The Met Office warns of potential wintry weather following a brief respite on Saturday, with Chief Forecaster Steve Willington highlighting the likelihood of additional snow accumulation in Scotland and northern England on Sunday.
The forecast includes 2-5cm of snow at lower elevations and up to 20cm over higher terrain, potentially leading to further disruptions in areas already heavily affected by snowfall. Central and southern England and Wales are expected to experience rainfall, contributing to a wet Sunday across these regions.