Storm Joshua is sweeping over Schleswig-Holstein: chaos and warnings!

Storm Joshua is sweeping over Schleswig-Holstein: chaos and warnings!

On Friday morning, storm “Joshua” hit the west coast of Schleswig-Holstein with full force. While the storm swept over Heligoland with wind speeds of up to 126 km/h, 117 km/h was measured on the mainland in Büsum, which corresponds to wind force 11. Meteorologist Sebastian Wache expects that the gusts could reach speeds of 100 km/h by the afternoon. This force of nature brings not only storms and rain, but also a frightening storm surge that could rise up to 2.50 meters above normal on the North Sea coast and in areas of the country. The advance warnings for storms and gusts of wind still apply, and hurricane gusts can also be expected on the Brocken. The situation remains tense, especially in the north, while a slight easing of tensions is in sight in the south of the country.

The fire brigade's operations were limited for the time being. During the night, the emergency services responded to 30 missions in Dithmarschen, Steinburg, Segeberg and Pinneberg as well as 20 in Flensburg, North Friesland and Schleswig-Flensburg due to fallen trees, but fortunately there were no injured people to report. Despite the quiet operations at night, NDR reports that the forecast for the afternoon and evening remains tense with gusts between 70 and 85 km/h (Bft 8 to 9).

Movements in traffic

The effects of the storm are also noticeable in rail traffic. Delays and cancellations are not uncommon, especially on the march track. Travelers are advised to only undertake essential journeys. The Wyker Dampfschiffs-Reederei has temporarily stopped ferry operations, but has announced that they will resume them, although changes to the timetable are possible at any time. The Halunder Jet between Hamburg and Heligoland will also remain suspended on Friday and Saturday, while the connection to the Danish island of Rømø continues, but with restrictions.

Invasive species and their threats

Another serious issue that has received a lot of attention in recent days is the increasing threat of invasive species. During the last hunting season, over 7,300 nutrias were shot - three times as many as the year before. The number of raccoons has also increased by more than 50%. The state hunting association is urgently calling for more funding for appropriate measures in order to combat these animals more effectively in nature reserves. The Ministry of Agriculture has confirmed that the legal framework to combat these species is already in place.

In addition, due to four confirmed cases of bird flu in wild birds, the country has issued a general order that contains strict requirements for poultry farmers, including the obligation to disinfect and wear protective clothing.

When you look at the weather forecasts for the coming days, the situation remains tense. Meteorologists are expecting further unrest from Mother Nature, as showers, sleet and possibly even thunderstorms are forecast for Sunday, which could cause wind speeds to increase again.

Residents in Schleswig-Holstein are well advised to prepare for further uncomfortable days. Particular caution is required as already weakened trees could fall on the roads and railway lines, which would further affect the traffic situation. A noticeable calming of the weather is not expected until next week; Winds are likely to remain strong Monday and Tuesday. The weather conditions therefore have the potential for a calm recovery on the one hand and dangerous surprises on the other.