February Full of Contrasts in Germany: From Record Snowfalls to Summer Heat

The end of February 2026 in Germany has become a symbol of progressing climate change, presenting the full spectrum of weather extremes. In southwestern federal states such as Baden-Württemberg, temperatures reaching 23 degrees Celsius were recorded, breaking previous heat records for this month. Meanwhile, in Berlin and Brandenburg, thermometers showed values oscillating around 20 degrees, a drastic contrast to the harsh winter conditions that prevailed there just recently. Meteorological services emphasize that such high temperatures in February are an exceptional phenomenon, forcing a revision of existing climate models for Central Europe. Systematic temperature measurements in Europe, conducted since the mid-19th century, show that the average winter temperature has risen by over 2 degrees Celsius, resulting in more frequent occurrence of violent phenomena instead of stable weather.A completely different picture of winter emerges from reports for northern and eastern Germany. Berlin and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern experienced the snowiest season since 2012. Despite abundant snowfall, experts from the DWD point to a worrying paradox: despite the visual abundance of snow, the water balance in many regions still indicates shortages. In Saarland, on the other hand, winter was marked by record rainfall with an almost complete lack of sunshine, which negatively affected the well-being of residents and the condition of agricultural crops. Since 2012, Central Europe has been struggling with cyclical precipitation deficits, which have permanently lowered groundwater levels, making ecosystems more vulnerable to sudden heatwaves.The sudden warming triggered an immediate reaction from nature, which became a serious problem for people suffering from allergies. Experts warn that this year's pollen season started late due to the frosty beginning of February, but the high temperature caused cumulative and exceptionally intense flowering of hazel and alder trees. This season is predicted to be unusually long and troublesome. Simultaneously, winter sports centers in lower mountain regions, including Hesse, were forced to close ski slopes. Although skiers tried to use the last patches of snow, an approaching low-pressure front with rainfall ultimately ended the season in these regions. „Nach der Rekordwärme im Südwesten sorgt ein heranziehendes Tief für Wolken und Schauer und beendet diese ungewöhnliche Frühlingsphase mitten im Winter.” (Following the record warmth in the southwest, an approaching low brings clouds and showers, ending this unusual spring phase in the middle of winter.) — DWD Statement