Damaging winds to threaten Germany on Weiberfastnacht

By Kristina Pydynowski, AccuWeather senior meteorologist

February 22,2017, 12:27:36PM,EST

 

 

A powerful storm will sweep across Germany on Thursday into Thursday night, threatening to cause damage, travel disruptions and interfere with Weiberfastnacht celebrations.
The storm, known locally as Thomas, will unleash yet another round of rain and gusty winds across Germany with northern areas facing the most adverse impacts.
While rain will soak anyone headed outdoors for Weiberfastnacht, strong winds will pose the highest danger to residents and travelers in northern Germany.
Gusts capable of causing at least sporadic power outages and tree damage will whip most of the country in a west-to-east fashion on Thursday afternoon and night.
However, such impacts may occur on a more widespread level across North Rhine-Westphalia and southern Lower Saxony with gusts of 96-113 km/h (60-70 mph) expected. The strongest winds will howl on Thursday evening in Dortmund and Hanover.

Falling trees can cause additional damage and bodily harm. The winds also threaten to disrupt rail and air travel and could overturn high-profile vehicles. Loose lawn items will easily get tossed around and could get damaged.
Cologne will be on the southern fringe of the strongest winds on Thursday evening. Any power outages that ensue could put some masked balls and parties in the dark. Showers will be around as the winds howl, making holding onto umbrellas difficult.
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As the storm races eastward, winds will not be quite as strong in northeastern Germany on Thursday night but still capable of causing issues for residents.
“Berlin will still have wind gusts approach 80 km/h (50 mph),” AccuWeather Meteorologist Rob Richards said.

With the gusty winds whipping through Berlin and Dresden on Thursday night, not as many travelers will be impacted when compared to if the storm was occurring during the morning or afternoon commute.
However, power outages could still result. Those without an alarm clock on batteries could find themselves running behind on Friday morning.
Residents throughout Germany will also find themselves reaching for a heavier jacket before heading to work or school on Friday as colder air will rush in following Thursday’s storm.
Friday will feel more typical of February with highs set to range from 4-7 degrees Celsius (39-45 degrees Fahrenheit). Scattered showers will further put a damper on the day with snow showers expected in the higher elevations.
Temperatures will rebound this weekend after a warm front produces another spell of rain and gusty winds across the north on Saturday.