Hamburg is grappling with hazardous winter conditions as snow blanketed the city early Friday, leading to widespread travel disruptions. Numerous accidents have been reported on roadways and at the airport, prompting warnings from authorities and a full deployment of city sanitation crews. While Hamburg’s winter services are working to clear routes, drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution amid slick conditions and ongoing delays.
AUDIO: Schneefall führt zu Unfällen in und um Hamburg (1 Min)
Stand: 02.01.2026 13:12 Uhr
Snow began falling in Hamburg early Friday morning, covering roads with a layer of white. City sanitation crews are working to clear streets as numerous accidents have been reported.
Hamburg’s sanitation department began winter operations this morning with 125 workers. As the snowfall intensified, crews were increased to around 600 personnel operating 260 vehicles. The department says it is well-prepared for the evening commute, but cautions that roads may remain slick and urges all drivers to exercise caution.
Truck and Van Involved in Collision
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The icy conditions have already led to multiple accidents on Hamburg’s highways. A delivery van and a tractor-trailer collided on the A7 between Schnelsen-Nord and Quickborn, resulting in one injury. Within the city, a truck driver reportedly attempted to brake for a red light at Saseler Damm, but the vehicle slid on the ice and struck a pedestrian, who was also injured.
Video:
Snowfall Creates Slippery Roads in Hamburg (1 Min)
Trucks Skid on Highways and Kohlbrand Bridge
Trucks were reported to have slid on slight inclines at highway on-ramps to the A7 and A23. On the Köhlbrand Bridge, trucks struggled with the grade, with one vehicle becoming stuck and temporarily blocking traffic. This caused congestion throughout the port area. A public bus also became stuck on a median strip on Grindelallee and required specialized equipment for removal.
Airport Delays
Problems are also being reported at the airport, where crews have been clearing runways since this morning. With planes requiring de-icing, the airport says to expect delays in both departures and arrivals.




