Germany is in for a weather rollercoaster. After days of dull skies and drizzle, the country will swing from spring-like warmth to icy winter within just a few days. Meteorologists warn that by the weekend, snow will fall across most regions — so if your winter tyres aren’t on yet, it’s time.
A brief taste of spring before the freeze
Early in the week, clouds, fog, and drizzle dominate. But by midweek, the atmosphere changes dramatically. Warm air masses from the southwest push over the Alps, carrying Saharan dust and sunshine.
Meteorologist Dominik Jung from wetter.net told reporters that Germany faces a “crazy weather week.” By Thursday, much of the country will see T-shirt weather. On Friday, temperatures near the Upper Rhine could even reach 21°C — a rare treat for mid-November. But that warmth won’t last long.
The polar air strikes back
By Friday evening, the wind will shift — turning sharply to the north. Cold polar air will sweep down, pushing away the Saharan dust and turning the mild air into an Arctic blast.
Jung warns: “Those who go out in a T-shirt on Friday may be in for a shock by Saturday.”
The change will be brutal: in just 24 hours, temperatures will drop from 20°C to below zero, with some areas dipping to –8°C overnight.
Snow for the weekend
The first snowflakes of the season are expected by Saturday, initially along the Alps and spreading to the central highlands. Rain will quickly turn to snow as the cold front pushes through.
By Saturday night into Sunday, the entire country could see snow showers. While it may not settle in the lowlands, the mid-range mountains could turn white for the first time this winter.
Meteorologists say the European weather model even hints at another complete turnaround next week — meaning the snow may not stay for long.
The calm before the storm: low-pressure system “Odin”
Before the cold air arrives, Germany will experience one more round of mild, damp weather. According to Simon Trippler from the German Weather Service (DWD), a system named “Odin” will dominate early in the week.
It will bring mild but cloudy and wet conditions, with fog and drizzle especially in the west and north. Warm air from the southwest will keep things gentle for now — but it’s the last calm before the cold front moves in.
What to expect
Thursday–Friday: unusually warm, sunny, and dry — up to 21°C in the southwest.
Friday night: sudden wind change, colder air from the north.
Saturday–Sunday: temperatures near or below 0°C, widespread snow and frost.
Drivers should switch to winter tyres and prepare for slippery roads across large parts of the country.
A “Jo-Jo November” indeed
November often brings surprises, but this week’s temperature swing — from spring to winter in less than 48 hours — is one of the sharpest so far. Whether the snow stays or melts, one thing is certain: winter is no longer knocking — it’s already here.
