Snow chaos in the north: Volksparkstadion closed due to condensation!

Snow chaos in the north: Volksparkstadion closed due to condensation!

Winter has Germany once again firmly in its grip. Northern Germany in particular is dealing with melting snow, slippery conditions and persistent temperature changes. On January 14, 2026, drivers and pedestrians must be particularly careful as weather conditions have deteriorated significantly. NDR reports that road conditions are slippery due to condensation beneath the snow, which has already led to dangerous situations.

The soccer game between Hamburger SV and Bayer Leverkusen planned for today at the Volksparkstadion in Hamburg was canceled at short notice. The roof membrane of the stadium is at risk from the condensation, which is why the fire department warned of roof avalanches and falling icicles. In addition, the fire brigade was called out in Norderstedt due to water accumulation in apartments and basements. In Hamburg itself, gutters and drains often cannot drain because they are frozen or blocked.

Traffic chaos and disruptions

Traffic conditions are tense in many places. The Elbe Tunnel had to be closed at short notice due to ice on the road, and the A7 between Hamburg-Waltershof and the Elbe Tunnel was also temporarily affected, leading to long traffic jams. ADAC reports similar problems on the roads in Germany, where the traffic situation has gradually normalized after the storms “Elli” and “Gunda”, but caution is still required.

This weather situation also means restrictions for local public transport. Disruptions are expected on the S-Bahn routes in Hamburg until Wednesday morning; the connection between Altona and Dammtor is affected. There were further delays at Hamburg Central Station due to damage to the overhead line. Regional transport in Lower Saxony and Bremen is also struggling with late trains and some cancellations.

Onset of winter and outlook

How Meteocentre According to reports, Germany is facing a return of winter, with intermittent snowfalls and temperatures significantly below zero. In higher regions, fresh snow of up to 20 cm has even been announced, which further increases the risk of slippery conditions.

Inland shipping on the Elbe near Geesthacht has been suspended due to heavy ice, while icebreakers are being used to keep the waterways clear. The Elbe ferries should also be able to run again at the end of the week, weather conditions permitting. The Szczecin Lagoon is completely covered with ice up to the frost line.

The current temperatures and weather conditions not only pose a challenge for traffic, but also for the health of citizens. Gerald Gaß, chairman of the German Hospital Association, reported an increase in accidents in emergency rooms. It is advisable to drive with foresight, keep enough distance and be prepared for winter conditions.

All in all, it shows that winter in Germany still poses plenty of challenges. Caution is advised – be it when driving or moving outdoors. The next few days will show how the weather situation develops.