Kiel Winter Chaos: Internal Tensions and Demands for Better Preparedness

Following the weekend snowfall that halted Kiel's buses for 18 hours, criticism intensifies with internal discontent at the building office and calls for improved winter readiness to prevent future disruptions.

The recent snow chaos in Kiel, detailed in initial reports of criticism toward clearing services and the KVG, has revealed deeper issues. After just 5 cm of snow over the weekend, bus operations were down for a full 18 hours, prompting public and political demands for a thorough investigation and assurances that 'this must not happen again.'

Internal tensions at the Office for Building and Communications (ABK) are mounting, with staff voicing frustration over inadequate personnel deployment and coordination among agencies. This builds on earlier defenses from winter service head Christian Schmitt and opposition calls from the CDU for faster responses, echoing past failures in 2023.

The incidents underscore broader winter preparedness concerns across Schleswig-Holstein. While an official city statement is awaited, the ongoing debate highlights needs for better infrastructure and resources amid forecasts of more snow.

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Snow chaos in Kiel: halted buses and traffic jam on snow-covered streets amid criticism of city winter services.
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Criticism of winter service in Kiel after snow chaos

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A forecasted winter incursion caused major traffic issues in Kiel, including the complete halt of bus services for hours. The winter service head sees no mistakes, but opposition and commentators criticize the city administration. The CDU demands improvements following similar incidents last year.

Heavy snowfall on Saturday evening paralyzed bus services in Lübeck and southern Schleswig-Holstein. Stadtwerke Lübeck mobil suspended all lines shortly after 9 p.m. and directed vehicles to the depot. Police reported about 35 slip accidents without serious injuries.

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Heavy snowfall over the weekend caused major disruptions to public transport and numerous car accidents in northern Germany. Buses were halted in cities like Hannover, Oldenburg, and Lüneburg, while trains were canceled or severely delayed. Experts debate whether the north is less equipped for winter weather due to less experience compared to the south.

The Verdi union has called for a nationwide warning strike in communal public transport on February 2, which will largely paralyze local transit in cities like Kiel, Lübeck, Neumünster, and Flensburg. Employees bear the risk for delays and should discuss alternatives with supervisors early. Bus companies are primarily affected, while some long-distance services continue to operate.

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Millions of kronor in compensation are expected to be paid out to travelers affected by snow chaos in public transport. In the Göteborg area alone, it amounts to up to 5 million kronor, following cancellations and severe delays in trams and other services. Similar issues have been reported in Stockholm, Gävleborg, and northern Sweden.

Freezing rain and ice has led to numerous traffic accidents in Schleswig-Holstein and Hamburg. Several motorways were temporarily closed, and hospitals report high strain from injuries. The German Weather Service continues to warn of black ice risks.

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Storm Elli's disruptions have expanded beyond initial Schleswig-Holstein impacts to northern and eastern Germany, prompting widespread school closures, ongoing rail chaos around Hannover, and forecasts of 10-20 cm snow in southern regions Saturday. North Sea gusts and a cruise ship's early return add to challenges.

 

 

 

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