Wind and cold cause a felt temperature of -22 degrees - Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania shivers through its coldest winter day yet

Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania has faced its coldest day of the winter so far. On Monday, temperatures in eastern Vorpommern plunged to minus 14°C (7°F), with wind chill making it feel far colder. The freezing conditions have disrupted transport and left residents bracing for more chill before a gradual warm-up.

The bitter cold gripped the region early on Monday, with wind chill dropping temperatures to minus 22°C (–8°F) in the morning. By daylight, the air still felt as low as minus 20°C (–4°F). These readings mark the lowest of the season but fall short of the record-setting freeze in 2012, when Ueckermünde hit minus 28.7°C (–19.7°F).

The extreme weather has already caused problems. A ferry serving Hiddensee suffered ice damage, forcing authorities to rely on an icebreaker for emergency crossings only.

Forecasters predict a slow rise in temperatures over the coming days. By next weekend, readings may climb to around freezing or slightly above, offering some relief from the deep chill.

While the cold spell has not broken historical records, its impact has been sharp. Ferry services remain limited, and residents must wait for warmer air before normal conditions return. The gradual thaw should bring temperatures closer to zero by the weekend.