A wave of frost and intense snowfall has paralyzed parts of Europe, from the UK to Germany and Italy. Forecasters warn of extreme temperatures dropping to minus 15 degrees Celsius and icy roads. However, the latest forecasts indicate a sudden change in weather as early as this coming weekend. A powerful Azores High is approaching the continent, bringing almost spring-like temperatures, reaching up to 16 degrees above zero in some areas.

Extreme Frost in Germany

Meteorologists predict temperatures dropping to minus 15 degrees Celsius, especially in the northern and eastern parts of the country, and snowfall of up to 40 cm.

Storm Pedro over the British Isles

The UK is grappling with snowfall, ice, and downpours. Numerous yellow warnings have been issued for Wales and southern England.

Spring Breakthrough This Weekend

The approaching Azores High will bring a rapid temperature rise, reaching up to 16 degrees above zero in Switzerland and southern Germany.

Europe is grappling with the last onslaught of a harsh winter, which has brought heavy snowfall and transport paralysis to many regions. In Germany, meteorological services are warning of a snow band stretching from North Rhine-Westphalia to Bavaria, where fresh snow accumulation could reach up to 40 centimeters. The situation is particularly difficult in Berlin and Brandenburg, where thermometers may read minus 11 degrees, posing a real threat to people experiencing homelessness. Authorities are urging extra caution on roads due to black ice. The UK is feeling the effects of Storm Pedro, which has brought yellow weather warnings for Wales and southern England. Meanwhile, in Italy, Protezione Civile has declared a yellow alert for nine regions. Intense storms, strong winds, and snowfall in lowland areas in the northern part of the country are expected. In the Alps, despite improved snow cover, experts warn of a still high avalanche risk, which has increased following recent intense blizzards. Historically, February in Central Europe has often been the most unpredictable month, where masses of frigid air from Siberia clashed with milder Atlantic influences, frequently leading to sudden snowmelt floods. Despite the current chill, forecasts for the coming days bring optimism to those awaiting spring. An anticyclone from the Azores is moving over Europe. This phenomenon will cause a rapid temperature rise. In Switzerland, thermometers are expected to reach up to 16 degrees, and sunny weather will prevail across Italy. Lorenzo Tedici, a well-known meteorologist, emphasizes that after a month and a half of unstable weather, a period of lasting stabilization and almost spring-like conditions is coming, covering most of the continent. „In northern Germany, a temperature of minus 10 degrees is practically certain, and Friday will likely be the coldest day of the week.” — Jan Schenk Forecast Minimum Temperatures in Berlin: 2026-02-18: -2, 2026-02-19: -8, 2026-02-20: -11, 2026-02-21: 2, 2026-02-22: 6 40 cm — is the maximum forecast fresh snow cover in Germany Change in Weather Conditions in Central Europe: Maximum Temperature: -2°C → +14°C; Dominant Phenomenon: Snowstorms and Frost → Sunshine and Thaw; Pressure: Low (Cyclonic Systems) → High (Azores High)

Mentioned People

  • Jan Schenk — Meteorologist speaking to Focus Online about extreme frosts in Germany.
  • Lorenzo Tedici — Meteorological expert forecasting the arrival of the Azores High in Italy.