Snowstorm "Elli" in Schleswig-Holstein: Blizzard conditions and 30cm of snow expected

Snowstorm and blizzard-like conditions in Schleswig-Holstein are expected to cause massive disruptions as the weather system "Elli" approaches Northern Germany. NDR meteorologist Sebastian Wache warns of a significant deterioration in conditions starting early Friday morning, with the first snowfalls projected to hit the Elbe region around 5 a.m. As the low-pressure system moves eastward, it is forecast to gain intensity, bringing sustained heavy snowfall and powerful winds across the entire state. Experts anticipate between 20 and 30 centimeters of fresh snow, leading to severe visibility issues and dangerous snowdrifts, reports NewsToday24 citing ndr.

The combination of gale-force easterly winds and heavy precipitation poses a particular threat to the Baltic coast and the Flensburg Fjord, where water levels could rise up to 1.30 meters above average. Authorities have not ruled out a storm surge if levels exceed the 1.50-meter mark. Additionally, the Federal Waterways and Shipping Office (WSA) Baltic Sea has issued warnings regarding ice formation along the coast, affecting maritime traffic. On land, the situation is critical in rural areas like Nordfriesland, where many roads remain unpaved from previous snow. Meteorologists advise residents in isolated locations to stock up on essential supplies for several days, drawing historical parallels to the snow catastrophe of 1978/79, though a high-pressure system expected on Saturday should prevent a long-term crisis.

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