Heavy Snow and Freezing Rain Disrupts Travel and Power across Europe, Particularly in the U.K. and Germany

Heavy snow and freezing rain caused widespread disruption across Europe on Sunday, with the U.K. and Germany particularly affected. Several major airports were forced to suspend flights, while roads and railways were heavily impacted by the severe weather.

In the U.K., there are concerns that rural communities, particularly in northern England, could be cut off, with up to 40 centimeters (15 inches) of snow accumulating at higher altitudes. The National Grid reported power outages in Birmingham, Bristol, and Cardiff, while efforts were underway to restore electricity. Many sporting events were postponed, but the Premier League match between Liverpool and Manchester United went ahead after inspections of local conditions.

Airports in Liverpool, Manchester, and Leeds Bradford were forced to close runways, with flights resuming on Sunday, although delays persisted. The road network also faced significant disruptions, as many families and students returned after the holiday break, with local authorities preemptively closing some roads due to snow and accidents causing further delays.

National Rail canceled many train services, and disruptions are expected to continue into the working week. The Met Office forecasted further sleet and snow moving northwards, with southern England turning milder after freezing rain. The Environment Agency issued eight flood warnings across southern England.

Meanwhile, Germany faced similar winter conditions, with snow and ice causing chaos. Frankfurt Airport canceled 120 flights, and Munich airport was operating with only one runway. In Baden-Wuerttemberg, a bus skidded off the road, injuring eight people. Long-distance train services were also disrupted in the Frankfurt area, and authorities issued black ice warnings, advising people to stay home where possible.