A HEAVY storm swept across Germany last night into today, grounding flights and trains and forcing schools in several states to close. 

Police warned residents to stay home and avoid parks or forests, as gale-force winds whipped in from the north of the country.

The strongest winds were felt on Brocken, the highest point in the Harz highlands in central Germany, with speeds of up to 152km/h.

Long-distance trains were halted throughout northern Germany including in Hamburg, Berlin and Bremen until midday today at the earliest, the national rail operator Deutsche Bahn said.

Significant cancellations and delays were also expected on regional services. 

The airline Lufthansa cancelled 20 flights destined for Hamburg, Berlin and Munich, departing from Frankfurt, the country’s largest airport.

Travellers were encouraged to consult the company’s website to see the status of their flight.

The storm, which was raging over the north of Hesse, Saxony and southern Brandenburg in the east and central part of the country today, is expected to persist through tomorrow. 

New hurricane-force gales are expected in the night to Saturday in northern and central Germany. – AFP, February 17, 2022.