Weather Service: January in Germany partly as snowy as it hasn't been since 2010 - Germany's January 2023: Record Sunshine Meets Historic Snowstorms and Chaos

January 2023 brought extreme contrasts in weather across Germany. While some regions basked in record sunshine, others faced heavy snow, freezing rain, and storm-related chaos. The month saw both unusually dry conditions and the heaviest snowfall in over a decade.

The German Weather Service (DWD), based in Offenbach am Main, reported that January was far sunnier than average. Nationwide sunshine reached 67 hours—over 50 percent above normal. Southern Germany saw the most sun, with some areas recording over 100 hours.

Precipitation, however, was scarce. The country averaged just 45 litres per square metre, 25 percent below the long-term norm. Eastern regions were particularly dry, with some areas receiving as little as 25 litres.

Meanwhile, winter storm Elli struck northern Germany with force. It brought the heaviest snowfall in 15 years to parts of the northwest, particularly Hamburg and Lower Saxony. These regions experienced their snowiest January since 2010.

The storm also caused freezing rain, creating dangerous black ice. Rail services faced widespread delays and cancellations. After Elli passed, repeated winter weather led to further hazards, including additional freezing rain and heavy snow. Several fatalities were reported as a result.

Temperatures remained close to average, with a nationwide mean of -0.7°C. This fell within the typical range for January, despite the month's other extremes.

January's weather left a mixed impact across Germany. Some areas enjoyed prolonged sunshine, while others grappled with snow, ice, and storm-related dangers. The month's dry conditions and extreme snowfall highlighted the country's varied winter climate.