Deutsche Bahn temporarily suspended its long-distance rail services in northern Germany on Friday because of winter storm “Elli” . The company announced this in Berlin. Due to weather conditions, all rail traffic in the greater Hanover area was halted “until at least midday today.” As a result, one of the most important rail hubs nationwide was affected, meaning that “long-distance services in northern Germany are no longer possible.”
According to the rail operator, connections between Berlin and North Rhine–Westphalia as well as between Berlin and Hamburg were also impacted. Trains were being held at suitable stations, the company said. “This is necessary to protect passengers, employees, and vehicles.”
Earlier on Friday morning, Hanover’s S-Bahn had already completely suspended operations due to severe disruptions. Regional rail companies Metronom and Erixx reported problems caused by snowdrifts and frozen switches. They said they expected to have to suspend services within the next few hours. “From midday, almost all routes will no longer be passable,” they said in Uelzen and Celle.
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