Munich, August 22 – Heavy storms and persistent rainfall have affected the city and surrounding areas, prompting warnings from the German Weather Service (DWD). The severe weather has already caused disruptions, including a blocked train line. While the most intense rainfall has passed for some areas, the DWD advises residents to remain vigilant for further developments.
Train Line Blocked After Tree Falls
One of the most significant impacts of the storms was the blockage of the train line between Munich-Pasing and Kochel. According to Deutsche Bahn, a tree fell onto the tracks, leading to the closure of the section between Tutzing and Seeshaupt, which is used by regional trains. A replacement service using large-capacity taxis has been arranged to mitigate the disruption for commuters.
DWD Warns of Continued Heavy Rainfall and Potential Hail
The DWD had issued an official severe weather warning for the Munich district, anticipating “severe thunderstorms with heavy continuous rain and hail.” Meteorologists warned of intense rainfall, with quantities between 25 l/m² and 35 l/m² per hour, alongside severe gale-force winds reaching up to 90 km/h (25 m/s, 48 kn, Bft 10) and hail.
Earlier warnings indicated potential precipitation of 20-30 l/m² over 3 to 6 hours, with some areas possibly experiencing up to 40, and in isolated cases, up to 50 l/m². The DWD also cautioned about the possibility of larger hail (around 3 cm) and hurricane-force gusts (around 110 km/h) in eastern Upper and Lower Bavaria, although noting that this development was “still very uncertain.”
Previous Storms in Bavaria and Their Impact
The recent storms follow a period of unsettled weather in Bavaria. On Wednesday evening, a storm in Upper Franconia caused a stir, leading to the partial evacuation of a shooting festival in Kronach. Approximately 3,500 visitors had to leave the outdoor area due to the severe weather conditions, as reported by a police spokesperson.
Forecast for the Weekend
Temperatures in Munich on Friday are expected to range between 19 and a maximum of 22 degrees Celsius. The forecast for Saturday indicates a mix of sun and clouds with maximum temperatures around 21 degrees, and intermittent rain showers are possible. A similar weather pattern is anticipated for Sunday. Nights over the weekend will be notably cool, with temperatures dropping to around seven degrees Celsius on both Saturday and Sunday nights.
The DWD continues to monitor the situation closely and advises residents to stay updated on weather forecasts and warnings. While the immediate threat of the most severe downpours may have passed for some areas, the potential for further unsettled weather remains throughout the weekend.
Source: https://www.tz.de/muenchen/stadt/heftiger-starkregen-orkanboeen-und-hagel-unwetter-nehmen-kurs-auf-muenchen-94453758.html