Full Breakdown
Disruption Across Europe Due to Icy Weather Conditions
1/13/2026, 8:26:45 PM
Overview of the Situation
Severe icy weather has led to significant disruptions at airports across Central and Eastern Europe, particularly affecting Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport in Hungary, Bratislava Airport in Slovakia, and Vienna International Airport in Austria. These airports temporarily closed on Tuesday morning due to safety concerns related to black ice and extreme icing, but operations have since resumed.
Impact on Airports
Vienna International Airport experienced a thick layer of ice on its runways, which continued to refreeze despite de-icing efforts. This situation forced the diversion of flights to other airports. Similarly, Budapest Airport halted all arrivals and departures due to increased safety risks, with an Ethiopian Airlines cargo plane becoming stuck after its nose gear slipped off a taxiway. The airport is currently investigating the incident.
Prague's Václav Havel Airport operated in a "very limited mode" due to freezing rain, although it has since resumed normal operations. Delays are expected to persist throughout the day as staff work to manage the icy conditions.
Weather Conditions Across Europe
A weather system affecting parts of Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania has brought snow and freezing rain, leading to widespread icy conditions. The Sky News weather team noted that while drier conditions are anticipated for the Czech Republic and Austria, icy conditions are expected to return overnight. Further north, heavy snow is forecast for southern Norway and Sweden, while significant snowfall is also predicted for parts of Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, and Iraq.
In the UK, the Met Office has issued a yellow warning for ice in western and northern Scotland, alongside flood alerts in the aftermath of Storm Goretti, which has already caused significant disruptions.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have raised concerns about the preparedness of airports to handle severe winter weather. For instance, at Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport, a critical shortage of de-icing fluid led to the cancellation of over 3,200 flights since January 2. A KLM employee expressed frustration over the airport's inability to manage the situation effectively, stating, "This domino effect causes Schiphol to completely seize up on days like these with snow."
Official Statements & Responses
Airport authorities have urged passengers to monitor their websites and airline announcements for the latest flight information. They emphasized the ongoing efforts to manage the icy conditions and ensure safety. The Met Office has also indicated that while the risk of freezing rain will decrease, snowfall is likely to become more prevalent.
What's Next
As temperatures are predicted to rise slightly in the coming days, the risk of flooding due to melting snow and heavy rain has been highlighted. This could lead to further travel disruptions and property risks across Scotland and northern England.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The investigation into the circumstances of the incident is currently ongoing.” — Budapest Airport spokesperson
- “This domino effect causes Schiphol to completely seize up on days like these with snow.” — KLM employee, speaking anonymously
- “Passengers are requested to monitor the airport’s website and the airlines’ announcements for the latest information on their flights. Thank you for your patience and understanding.” — Budapest Airport statement
This ongoing weather situation continues to affect travel across Europe, with authorities working to mitigate disruptions as conditions evolve.
