Freezing rain brings Berlin's tram traffic to a standstill - effects for everyone!

Freezing rain brings Berlin's tram traffic to a standstill - effects for everyone!

On January 28, 2026, the streets of Berlin are severely affected by the effects of massive freezing rain. How rbb online reported that due to the freezing temperatures and the formation of a layer of ice on the overhead lines, tram traffic came to a complete stop on all lines. This unexpected weather not only brought local public transport to a standstill, but also severely restricted the mobility of Berliners.

In addition to the traffic situation, there is a special occasion to remember today. On January 27, 1945, the Auschwitz concentration camp was liberated. Numerous memorial events took place in Berlin in memory of Holocaust survivor Margot Friedländer, who remembered the horrors of the Holocaust until her death last year.

Infrastructure and resilience

The extreme weather conditions once again led to discussions about the resilience of critical infrastructure in Berlin. The four-day power outage in the Steglitz and Zehlendorf districts made it clear that improvements are urgently needed here. The repeated disruptions to tram traffic as a result of the freezing rain raise questions about the reliability and sustainability of the city's infrastructure.

This problem becomes all the more urgent as more than 300,000 Berliners are affected by excessive indebtedness. The rising cost of living poses enormous financial challenges for many citizens, which also has an impact on the local economy.

Climate pact and gastronomy

However, amidst these challenges, there are also positive developments. A climate pact was recently signed between state-owned companies and the Senate, which sets ambitious goals for reducing CO2 emissions. This could make a decisive contribution to improving living conditions in the city.

The catering industry in Berlin, on the other hand, is faced with completely different challenges. In view of rising costs and fewer guests, many restaurateurs in the capital are fighting for their survival. However, restaurants, pubs and bars are not only important in everyday urban life, but also central economic factors. The current economic situation poses major challenges, which could have a negative impact on the gastronomic offering.

The problems and developments mentioned are not only challenges, but also opportunities for the further development of Berlin, which increasingly has to face the challenges of climate change and economic uncertainty.