Heavy snow and freezing rain brought widespread travel disruptions to Europe on Sunday, with Germany facing some of the worst conditions. Airports, roads, and public transportation were heavily impacted, causing delays and cancellations.

German Airports Cancel Flights Amid Harsh Weather

Frankfurt Airport cancelled 120 of its 1,090 scheduled flights on Sunday due to snow clearance and poor visibility. A spokesperson for Fraport, the airport operator, reported that the weather significantly reduced operational capacity.

Munich Airport also struggled, with only one runway operational while snow was cleared from the other. On Saturday, 35 flights were cancelled as a precaution, and around 750 flights were postponed to Sunday, according to a Munich Airport representative. Stuttgart Airport experienced delays due to prolonged de-icing procedures, while Cologne recorded up to 10 centimetres of fresh snow overnight.

Traffic Accidents Spike on German Roads

Snow and ice turned Germany’s roads hazardous, resulting in a surge of traffic accidents. Many incidents were linked to drivers using summer tires despite treacherous conditions. Germany’s weather service issued black ice warnings, urging residents to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.

UK and Ireland Face Severe Weather Impacts

In the UK, heavy snow left roads in northern England and Wales impassable. Several airports suspended flights, and sporting events were postponed. The UK’s Met Office issued eight weather warnings across the country.

In Ireland, snow caused power outages affecting up to 30,000 homes and businesses. Authorities issued two weather alerts and advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel.

Officials Warn of Continued Disruptions

Officials across Europe caution that extreme winter weather is likely to continue in the coming days. Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel and prepare for further disruptions. Travelers are advised to check for updates from airlines and public transportation providers.