Thaw shock: Dangerous roof avalanches and icicles in Braunschweig!

Thaw shock: Dangerous roof avalanches and icicles in Braunschweig!

The capricious winter weather is also making itself felt in Hamburg. The thaw not only affected the water levels of the rivers, but also had significant consequences for the everyday lives of citizens. Particularly dramatic: The Bundesliga soccer game between Hamburger SV and Bayer Leverkusen in the Volksparkstadion was canceled at short notice because weather-related static risks arose. Under the snow, condensation accumulated on the roof membrane, causing the stadium to be closed. The aim is to reschedule the game NDR reported.

The fire department sounds the alarm! Roof avalanches and falling icicles pose an increasing risk, not only in Hamburg but also in other cities. Reports of falling snow slabs are making the rounds, especially in Braunschweig, where a similar problem occurred. Homeowners are asked to eliminate the danger posed by falling snow slabs and icicles in order to prevent damage to people and property. The city points out that owners who do not comply with this obligation are liable for possible damages, such as T Online reported.

Dramatic traffic disruptions

The thaw also severely affected traffic flow in and around Hamburg. The fire brigade had to be called out several times due to water accumulating in apartments and basements, especially in Norderstedt. In addition, the ice formation led to the Elbe Tunnel being closed for a short time because ice planks could fall onto the road. This measure caused long traffic jams on the A7 between Hamburg-Waltershof and the Elbe Tunnel. Experts are also observing rising water levels in the rivers of Lower Saxony, but there is currently no risk of supra-regional flooding, according to the experts.

The traffic disruptions also include S-Bahn traffic in Hamburg, which will remain affected until Wednesday morning, especially between Altona and Dammtor. Damage to the overhead line at Hamburg Central Station caused additional delays. Regional trains in Lower Saxony and Bremen are also struggling with delays and partial cancellations. The Elbe ferries had to stop operating due to the heavy ice, although the Elbe ferry “Tanja” is expected to be able to sail again at the end of the week.

But also bright spots!

Nevertheless, there is also positive news: Despite the winter conditions, the people of Hamburg and the surrounding area are very resilient. The city's sports halls, gymnasiums and other facilities that were previously closed are now reopening. The city of Braunschweig has also extended the exemption for the use of road salt in order to make the streets safer again.

At the end of the day, winter remains a challenge that needs to be overcome. Whether as a passenger, pedestrian or as an organizer - you need a good hand for the next few days, because the temperatures will drop back into the minus range as darkness falls and the roads could become slippery again. It remains to be hoped that everyone will exercise the necessary caution and respect the winter conditions.