Severe storm: Berlin and Brandenburg in a state of emergency!

Severe storm: Berlin and Brandenburg in a state of emergency!

On June 27, 2025, a severe thunderstorm with heavy rain and storms raged across Berlin and Brandenburg. The fire brigade in the capital had to go on around 750 weather-related missions to deal with the damage, which was particularly massive in the north-west of Berlin. Districts such as North Spandau, Heiligensee and Tegel were particularly affected, where emergency services found many fallen trees and uprooted plants. In Konradshöhe, for example, 16 trees fell alone. Deutschlandfunk reports that numerous forest areas are partially closed because the risk of falling branches still exists.

Another alarming aspect of the storm is the numerous injuries. Loud n-tv In Potsdam, a cyclist suffered life-threatening injuries when she was hit by a falling treetop. Serious incidents also occurred in Heiligensee: a pedestrian was hit by a falling tree and a driver was buried under another tree. Fortunately, all three injured people were quickly transported to hospitals.

Impact on S-Bahn traffic

The S-Bahn is also significantly affected by the storms. Traffic was stopped again, for the second time this week. Branches and trees block the tracks, which means that operations are severely restricted in certain areas. The replacement bus service is intended to offer people north of the Tegel and Schönholz train stations an alternative to at least remain somewhat mobile. Although operations on most lines were partially resumed in the evening, many routes in the north remain closed.

The German Weather Service warns of hurricane-like gusts that have reached speeds of up to 110 km/h. In urban areas, this can not only lead to property damage, but also endanger human lives. Last week, a 55-year-old woman died in the Spandau Forest when she was hit by a falling tree, which once again proves how serious the dangers posed by natural forces are.

Natural disasters in a larger context

Beyond current incidents, it is important to keep an eye on the frequency and intensity of such natural events. According to various sources, including a report on Statista, natural disasters are exacerbated by weather phenomena and geological activity, which is often linked to climate change. Such extreme events are increasing worldwide in terms of both the population affected and the economic damage. The growing threat of storms and other natural disasters requires a rethink in how cities plan and prepare.

The clean-up work in Berlin and Brandenburg is currently in full swing. The fire brigade, THW and numerous volunteers are working to repair the damage and restore the safety of citizens as quickly as possible. How the situation will develop further and whether lessons can be learned from the measures taken for future natural events remains to be seen.