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Snow warning for western Austria: chaos on the streets!
Heavy snowfall and the risk of black ice are affecting traffic in western Austria. Important tips for safe driving in winter conditions.
Snow warning for western Austria: chaos on the streets!
Heavy snowfall in Vorarlberg, Tyrol and Salzburg led to numerous traffic disruptions on November 25, 2025. The Austrian Automobile, Motorcycle and Touring Club (ÖAMTC) reports long traffic jams on the Brenner Motorway (A13) between Brenner and Schönberg. In addition, trucks that got stuck in the region caused delays on the Reschen Straße (B180) between Pfunds and Nauders. In Vorarlberg, a security closure was imposed between Lech am Arlberg and Warth.
There is also an acute risk of black ice in the north and east of Austria. Road users are asked to find out about the current road conditions before setting off and to carry snow chains with them. The Arlber region, the Tyrolean lowlands and the Salzburg Pinzgau are particularly affected.
Winter driving conditions and safety tips
In winter road conditions, drivers always have to expect black ice and snow, especially when temperatures are around freezing point. The ADAC points out that vehicles must be thoroughly cleared of ice and snow before driving to ensure optimal visibility. Ice scrapers and antifreeze should always be present in the car.
It is essential that vehicle occupants drive on winter surfaces with winter or all-season tires, whereby the tread depth should be at least 4 mm. The speed should always be adapted to the weather conditions, and sufficient distance to the vehicle in front is also important. Jerky steering movements should be avoided and careful steering is crucial in the event of a possible skid.
- Vor Fahrtbeginn das Auto vollständig von Schnee und Eis befreien.
- Bei Glatteis: besser im zweiten Gang anfahren.
- Temperaturen um den Gefrierpunkt analysieren: die Fahrbahnoberfläche kann sich schnell verändern.
- Schneeketten auf die Antriebsräder montieren, max. 50 km/h.
Also critical are the braking distances, which can be significantly longer in winter conditions. The NDR Recommends emergency braking with ABS if a collision is imminent.
There are currently warnings about the dangers of lightning ice; In such cases, drivers should leave their vehicle parked if possible. The risk of accidents is particularly high in regions with heavy snowfall, such as in Austria, as more than 100 registered ice-icing accidents show.
In summary, it is advisable to find out about the current weather conditions even if further snowfall is forecast and to drive with caution. These winter challenges require appropriate preparation from both drivers and vehicles.