A significant autumn storm is forecast to hit Germany on Thursday, bringing with it fierce gusts of wind, heavy rain and falling temperatures, according to the German Weather Service.
The first strong weather system of the season is expected to sweep across much of the country starting Thursday and lasting through the weekend.
The storm is expected to leave a distinctly wintry feel in its wake, so it may be time to bring out your warm jacket and other winter clothes if you haven’t already.
Meteorologist Simon Trippler from the German Weather Service (DWD) warns that residents can expect wind speeds exceeding 100 kilometres per hour, with particularly fierce gale-force and possibly hurricane-force gusts on higher mountain peaks and along the North Sea coast.
In the mountain regions, snow is expected to fall once the cold front arrives, with the snow line dipping to around 1,000 metres.
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The storm’s development could feature a “Sting-Jet” – a rare meteorological phenomenon that brings a narrow band of especially intense wind. It’s so-called because it can resemble the tail of a scorpion on weather maps.
However, current models suggest these winds might be slightly less severe than initially feared.
By Friday, the storm’s winds will subside gradually, but a persistent chill will remain. Temperatures will plummet to lows of just 3- to 4C in some regions, with the coldest temperatures felt in southern and eastern parts of the country.
The weekend forecast remains unsettled, with rain and wind gradually easing, but the outlook for next week points toward continued cooler weather, more typical of late autumn than the bright, mild October which Germany has enjoyed so far.
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On Thursday travellers and residents are advised to prepare for difficult conditions, including the risk of fallen trees and damage from the fierce winds.
Authorities urge caution as the storm passes through, especially near coastal and exposed areas.
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With reporting by DPA.
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: thelocal.de
