February Full of Contrasts: From Record Cold and Snow to Spring Heatwaves

This February has gone down in meteorological history as a month of extreme contrasts, putting an end to previous weather patterns in Germany and France. In northern Germany, particularly in Berlin and Brandenburg, snowfall of an intensity not seen for 14 years was recorded. This situation led to transport paralysis and forced an extraordinary mobilization of city services. Meanwhile, the southwestern regions of the country, such as Baden-Württemberg and Hesse, abruptly switched to spring mode. Thermometers there locally indicated up to 23 degrees Celsius, setting a new record for this time of year. Such drastic temperature swings—from bitter frosts to almost summer heat in just a few days—are becoming an increasingly clear signal of progressing climate change. 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 occurrences of violent phenomena instead of stable weather.In parallel, a catastrophic hydrological situation hit France. After a series of exceptionally heavy rainfalls, the interior minister announced that a further 270 municipalities had applied for recognition of a state of natural disaster. Although the rains helped rebuild the aquifers, their excess prevented fieldwork and led to numerous floods. Farmers warn that waterlogged soil could negatively impact this year's harvests, even though statistically the water deficit from previous years has been partially offset. In Germany, however, despite the snowy winter in the north, experts point to the progressing drought in central and eastern regions, where the water balance remains negative. Since 2012, Central Europe has been struggling with cyclical precipitation deficits, which have permanently lowered the groundwater table, making ecosystems more vulnerable to sudden heatwaves.For millions of Europeans, these changes mean not only logistical troubles but also health issues. The sudden warming caused accelerated plant vegetation, which in turn triggered a sudden and strong pollen season. Allergy sufferers, especially in Germany, are now facing extremely high concentrations of tree pollen, which appeared much earlier this year than usual. Forecasters predict this season will be exceptionally long and troublesome, as a wet February is followed by a period of stable, high temperatures conducive to flowering. At the same time, ski resorts in lower mountain areas, including in Hesse, were forced to immediately end the season, finally dashing hopes for a traditional, frosty winter in the heart of the continent.

Perspektywy mediów: Liberal media strongly emphasize linking the anomalies to the climate crisis and the need for immediate ecological reforms. Conservative media focus on the economic costs of natural disasters and the challenges for traditional agriculture in the face of changing weather patterns.