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Icy wonder world: massive ice formations fascinate on the Elbe!
Massive ice formations on the Elbe near Hamburg fascinate onlookers. Weather conditions and shipping measures.
Icy wonder world: massive ice formations fascinate on the Elbe!
A wintry natural spectacle is currently drawing many onlookers to the banks of the Elbe near Hamburg. In Geesthacht in particular, you can marvel at massive ice formations that are meters high in places. These impressive icebergs are the result of a combination of extreme temperatures of up to -10.8 degrees and a significant drop in water levels, which has seen the Elbe's outflow temporarily drop to just around 300 cubic meters per second. The formation of ground ice that shot up from the riverbed to the surface has blocked the waterway, causing inland shipping to stop, as Südtirol News reports.
In order to bring the situation under control, ten icebreakers are currently in use and have been working continuously since Monday morning to ensure that the Elbe channel is kept clear. The Waterways and Shipping Authority has taken responsibility here and provides regular information about the current situation. According to NDR, it is still unclear when inland shipping can resume, while normal operations continue in Schleswig-Holstein, although challenges due to the wintry weather continue.
The weather and its effects
The meteorological situation remains tense as meteorologists predict a new cold phase that could bring temperatures significantly below freezing again shortly before the end of the month. This could further encourage ice formation on the Elbe and make the situation even more complicated for shipping. The current weather also has an impact on the road conditions in Schleswig-Holstein, where slippery warnings have been issued. Numerous icy accidents and a complete closure of the A7 near Quickborn in the direction of Hamburg are evidence of the challenges arising from the winter conditions.
The ice service, which has been working to ensure shipping safety for over 100 years, has its hands full during this time. As can be read on the website of the Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency, regional reports on the ice situation in the North and Baltic Seas are prepared and weekly ice maps are published. If there is significant ice, these maps are even adjusted daily to ensure safe navigation.
These exceptional winter conditions not only present challenges, but also an opportunity for people to get out into the fresh air and enjoy the fascinating spectacle of nature. The meter-high ice formations may slow shipping, but they also ensure that many citizens and visitors can experience the beauty of the winter landscape on the Elbe.