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Severe Cold and Black Ice Threaten Parts of Austria This Week

A cold warning is in effect across austria as temperatures plummet and conditions become hazardous, notably in eastern and southern regions. Residents should prepare for severe cold stress and the potential for black ice formation as a shift in weather patterns brings increased cloud cover and precipitation.

According to the weather service GeoSphere Austria, “severe cold stress” is anticipated in orange-colored areas on Thursday.

Overnight Conditions and Thursday’s Forecast

During the night, fog or high fog will spread across eastern Austria, accompanied by clouds from a weak weather disturbance moving in from the west. Winds will remain light. Temperatures are expected to drop significantly, ranging from minus 14 to minus 2 degrees celsius, with even colder temperatures possible in localized areas.

Did you know? – Austria’s mountainous terrain significantly influences its weather patterns, creating localized variations in temperature and precipitation. Cold air can become trapped in valleys, leading to particularly frigid conditions.

Friday’s Outlook: A Slight Warm-Up, But Hazards Remain

Friday will see mostly overcast skies in the east, with occasional snowflakes. Elsewhere, a mix of sunny periods and high clouds is expected. Winds will be gentle and variable.

Early temperatures on Friday will range from minus 14 to minus 2 degrees Celsius, but daily maximums will climb to between minus 2 and plus 6 degrees Celsius – a notable increase compared to recent days, especially in the east. Despite the milder temperatures, a cold warning remains in place. A senior official stated that “increased cold exposure” can be expected in the yellow warning areas.

Saturday’s Risks: Low Pressure and Black Ice

The influence of low pressure will increase on Saturday, bringing more clouds and the likelihood of snowfall, particularly in Vorarlberg, Carinthia, and Styria. Some rain is also possible,raising concerns about black ice formation in places. Though, sunny intervals are expected, primarily on the north side of the Alps from Tyrol to Salzburg. Winds will remain light.

Early temperatures on Saturday are forecast to be between minus 8 and 0 degrees Celsius, with daily maximums ranging from minus 2 to plus 7 degrees Celsius. The warmest temperatures are anticipated in the west and south.

Residents are urged to exercise extreme caution when traveling and to stay informed about the latest weather updates from GeoSphere Austria.

Pro tip – Black ice is nearly invisible. Slow down, increase following distance, and avoid sudden braking or steering maneuvers when driving in perhaps icy conditions.

Why: A shift in weather patterns, including the arrival of low pressure and a weak weather disturbance, is causing plummeting temperatures and increased precipitation across Austria.

Who: The entire country of Austria is affected, but the eastern and southern regions, as well as Vorarlberg, Carinthia, and Styria, are experiencing the most significant impacts. GeoSphere Austria is the primary source of details, and residents are being urged to take precautions.

What: Austria is currently under a cold warning due to severe cold stress and the risk of black ice formation. Temperatures are dropping significantly, with overnight lows reaching minus 14 degrees celsius in some areas. Friday will bring a slight warm-up, but hazards remain. Saturday will see increased snowfall, particularly in the west and south, and the potential for rain leading to black ice.

How did it end? The situation is ongoing. While temperatures are expected to fluctuate, the cold warning remains in place. Residents are advised to stay informed through GeoSphere Austria and exercise caution, particularly when traveling. The article doesn’t indicate a definitive end to the hazardous conditions, but emphasizes preparedness and vigilance.