Although the calendar still says autumn, the weather across Germany is increasingly reminiscent of winter.
This week brings chilly nights, dense fog and the first snowfall in the Alps. Forecasts indicate a clear temperature drop, especially in southern regions, with some mountain areas expecting a fresh white coat before midweek.
Snow forecast for the Alps
According to the German Weather Service (DWD), snowfall is likely in the higher altitudes of the Alps starting Tuesday.
Above 2,000 meters, up to 10 centimeters of new snow could blanket the Allgäu Alps, while the Berchtesgaden Alps may see as much as 20 centimeters in favored locations.
The first flakes are expected mainly overnight and in the early morning hours between Tuesday and Wednesday. While valleys will see rain for now, the peaks are preparing to show their winter face.
Frost warnings in the lowlands
The cold air mass is not confined to the mountains. In eastern and southern Germany, nighttime temperatures will dip to near or even below freezing.
The DWD warns of ground frost reaching -2 to -3°C, especially in the Ore Mountains and parts of Saxony. Motorists should prepare for icy patches, frosted windshields and slippery roads caused by freezing moisture.
Changing weather through the week
Germany will experience a sharp north–south divide on Tuesday: sunny conditions in the north, unsettled weather in the south. Southeastern Bavaria could even see isolated thunderstorms before snow showers arrive in the Alps.
Wednesday brings a brief respite with more sunshine across the country, though frost remains widespread at night.
Thursday looks calmer with mild daytime highs between 10 and 17°C, but once again frost will dominate the nights.
By the weekend, a new system will push in from the west, bringing rain, gusty winds and stormy conditions at higher altitudes and along the coasts.
Safety concerns: slippery roads and early winter tires
With frost, wet leaves and patches of snow, Germany’s roads face heightened accident risks this week.
Drivers are reminded that winter tires are legally required in icy conditions – a rule known as the “situative winter tire obligation”.
Penalties range from €60 to €100 and include a penalty point in Flensburg for those caught with summer tires in dangerous conditions.
The ACE automobile club recommends switching to winter tires sooner rather than later, noting that summer tires lose grip even at low positive temperatures.
The well-known guideline “October to Easter” remains the safest practice.
A glimpse of the months ahead
While winter is officially still weeks away, the weather this week offers a clear preview of what’s coming.
Snow-capped alpine peaks, frosty lowlands and unpredictable autumn skies are already making themselves felt.
For many, it means waking up earlier, scraping ice off car windows, and preparing for the long, cold season ahead.
