The lightning damaged an overhead line, signalling systems, and tracks, leading to disruptions across multiple long-distance and regional services. Repairs are expected to be completed by Thursday afternoon, November 28, 2024.
Impact on long-distance services
Long-distance trains have been significantly affected, with several routes cancelled or delayed. The following connections are impacted:
- Delays: ICE trains between Kiel/Hamburg and Munich, as well as those heading to Interlaken Ost, are being rerouted, resulting in delays of approximately 20 minutes. Similar delays apply to ICE/IC services between Hamburg and South Germany.
- Cancellations: ICE trains between Hamburg and Munich via Berlin and Nuremberg, and between Kiel/Lübeck and Munich via Hanover, Göttingen, and Würzburg, are canceled on segments involving Hamburg. ICE/IC services between Stralsund and Karlsruhe are also canceled between Hamburg and Karlsruhe.
Several stops along the affected routes, including Lüneburg, Bad Bevensen, Uelzen, Celle, and Langenhagen, have been removed from the schedules.
Regional traffic adjustments
Regional services are less severely impacted, with one track between Lüneburg and Uelzen reopened. Metronom trains on the RE3/RB31 line are running hourly in both directions between Hamburg Central Station and Uelzen. However, partial cancellations and delays persist due to reduced route capacity and a backlog of trains.
Passenger alternatives
Travelers are advised to consider alternative routes. Connections from Hamburg to Bremen with onward travel to Hanover are recommended. For trips to Frankfurt am Main, direct long-distance services from Hamburg Central Station remain available. Tickets for affected routes can be used at a later date, and seat reservations can be cancelled free of charge.
Onboard disruptions and rail replacement services
An ICE train south of Lüneburg stranded 350 passengers for several hours until a diesel locomotive towed the train to Bienenbüttel station late Tuesday evening. During the wait, the German Red Cross provided hot drinks, snacks, and blankets to passengers, who later utilized replacement bus services.
Efforts to repair the damaged overhead line and signaling infrastructure are ongoing, with teams working to restore normal operations as soon as possible.
