Powerful storm system 'Joshua' continues to impact northern Germany, resulting in widespread disruptions, flooding, and transportation issues across coastal regions. Since Thursday, the storm has brought strong winds, heavy rainfall, and the risk of storm surges, particularly affecting the North Sea and Baltic Sea coastlines.

Flooding and Ferry Cancellations on Föhr and Beyond

On the North Frisian island of Föhr, the harbor has experienced significant flooding, leading to the suspension of ferry services. The vessel 'Uthlande' was unable to depart from Wyk on Föhr due to hazardous conditions. The ferry operator, Wyker Dampfschiffs-Reederei Föhr-Amrum, announced multiple cancellations for both the afternoon and evening, stranding travelers and residents on the island. Similar disruptions have been reported at the Dagebüll ferry terminal, with rising water levels inundating critical infrastructure.

Widespread Impact on North and Baltic Sea Transportation

The effects of the storm extend along the entire North Sea coast, where ferry routes serving the East Frisian Islands have been suspended. Destinations such as Wangerooge, Norderney, and Juist are currently inaccessible, isolating both visitors and residents. Services to Helgoland have been cancelled for the remainder of the week, and the Föhr-Amrum and Hallig ferry lines are also affected. Operations from Tönning and the Eidersperrwerk have been halted due to dangerous conditions.

On the Baltic Sea, ferry operator 'Scandlines' has suspended the majority of crossings between Rostock and Gedser, Denmark. Some ships servicing Rügen are also unable to operate, further compounding travel challenges.

Major Cruise Ship Alters Course

The cruise vessel 'AIDA Perla', carrying approximately 4,000 passengers, was forced to terminate its North Sea voyage a day ahead of schedule. The ship docked safely in Hamburg during the early hours of Friday morning, seeking shelter from ongoing hurricane-force gusts.

Severe Weather Hazards and Property Damage

Across multiple German states, 'Joshua' has triggered numerous emergency incidents. In Saarland, a regional train collided with a fallen tree on the tracks, but passengers were unharmed and the service resumed after a brief delay. In Düsseldorf, a 50-meter tree toppled, damaging several parked vehicles and nearby buildings, although no injuries were reported. In Schwäbisch Hall, strong winds tore roofing materials from buildings, causing further property damage. In Wilhelmshaven, loosened bricks from a building facade posed a safety risk until emergency services secured the area.

Storm Surge Predictions and Weather Warnings

Meteorological forecasts anticipate wind speeds reaching up to 120 kilometers per hour in northern Germany. Authorities are warning of storm surges along the Elbe River and the North Sea coast. Hamburg's famous fish market is at risk of flooding, with water levels expected to peak at about two meters above normal in the early evening hours.

First Snowfall of the Season

The storm has also ushered in colder temperatures and the first snowfall of the year in regions such as the Erzgebirge. Light snow has settled on the Fichtelberg, with the snow line expected to drop further over the weekend.

Ongoing Weather Risks

As the storm system gradually moves towards Denmark and Scandinavia, forecasters predict continued unsettled conditions across northern Germany. Showers, thunderstorms, and further strong winds are likely, especially along coastal areas, with temperatures remaining moderate for late October.