Sun Jan 25 18:20:00 UTC 2026: ### Hazardous Black Ice Grips Northwestern Poland as Freezing Rain Descends

The Story: A surge of freezing rain has struck several northwestern Polish districts, creating treacherous conditions on roads and sidewalks. The affected areas include Piła, Czarnków-Trzcianka, Chodzież, Wałcz, and Złotów. Authorities issued RCB alerts and meteorological warnings from the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) prior to the onset of the “gołoledź,” or black ice. With temperatures plummeting to -4 degrees Celsius and rainfall expected to intensify, particularly around Piła and Wałcz around 23:00, the IMGW has issued a second-degree weather warning effective until 10:00 AM Monday.

Key Points:

  • Freezing rain has created widespread black ice in Piła, Czarnków-Trzcianka, Chodzież, Wałcz, and Złotów districts.
  • RCB alerts and IMGW warnings were issued in advance of the event.
  • The air temperature is -4 degrees Celsius.
  • Rainfall is expected to intensify around Piła and Wałcz around 23:00.
  • A second-degree meteorological warning is in effect until 10:00 AM Monday.

Key Takeaways:

  • The combination of sub-freezing temperatures and rainfall poses a significant hazard to public safety.
  • Early warnings from RCB and IMGW are crucial for mitigating potential accidents and injuries.
  • The severity of the weather event necessitates heightened awareness and caution from residents in affected areas.
  • Further intensification of the freezing rain overnight will likely lead to increased travel disruptions on Monday morning.
  • The second-degree weather warning indicates a high risk of dangerous weather conditions.

    Read More