The extreme weather conditions and the persistent strong wind make it impossible to hold the event safely.
“Safety is our top priority”
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“It is with a heavy heart that we have to announce that this year’s ‘Aufsteirern’ Festival – in close coordination with the responsible authorities – unfortunately has to be cancelled for the entire weekend due to the current weather forecast,” said the organizers in a press release on Friday. In addition, a safe journey for guests cannot be guaranteed under the circumstances. “The safety and well-being of all participants, visitors and our employees is our top priority,” said the organizers. They hope for bright sunshine again in 2025.
Surprised by snowy road
Snow and rain caused numerous problems in Styria on Friday, especially on the higher mountain roads. Chains were required in the Mariazell area, Hieflau, on the Lahnsattel, on the Gaberl and on the Niederalpl. As winter tyres are not yet compulsory, road users were surprised by snowy roads despite the forecasts – for example on the Schanzsattel in Fischbach, where the fire brigade had to be called out to carry out rescues.
Photo gallery: In September: Winter arrives in Austria
(Photo: EXPA/JOHANN GRODER (APA)) Bild 1/12
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On Friday morning, the Mariazeller Straße (B20) was covered in snow in both directions between Seewiesen and Gollrad, and snow chains were required for vehicles over 3.5 tonnes. The same applied to the Eisenstraße (B115) between Eisenerz and Vordernberg, where winter tires were also strongly recommended for all vehicles. Chains were also required for vehicles over 3.5 tonnes on the Lahnsattel. Snow chains were required for all vehicles over the Gaberl – as was the case on the Niederalpl Landesstraße (L113) between Mürzsteg and Aschbach.
The ÖBB said that due to a mudslide between Friedberg and Aspang Markt Bahnhof, no train journeys would be possible until Friday midnight. A rail replacement service had been requested. However, up to 60 minutes more travel time would be necessary.
ePaper
Extreme Weather Conditions Force Cancellation of Events in Austria
Austria has been hit by extreme weather conditions, leading to the cancellation of several events and festivals. The recent snow and rain have caused numerous problems, especially on higher mountain roads, with chains being required in several areas.
Aufsteirern Festival Cancelled Due to Safety Concerns
The popular ‘Aufsteirern’ Festival has been cancelled for the entire weekend due to the current weather forecast. The organizers made the difficult decision in close coordination with the responsible authorities, citing safety concerns as their top priority. In a press release, they stated, “The safety and well-being of all participants, visitors, and our employees is our top priority.” They hope to hold the festival again in 2025 with bright sunshine.
Other events have also fallen victim to the weather conditions. The Carnuntum Roman Festival in the district of Bruck an der Leitha has been canceled due to the weather, as well as the “Hiabstla” event [[2]]. In Graz, the city center landlords have opened up again this year, despite the cancellation of the spectacle [[3]].
Weather Woes Across Styria
Snow and rain have caused chaos across Styria, with road users being surprised by snowy roads despite forecasts. Chains were required in areas such as Mariazell, Hieflau, Lahnsattel, Gaberl, and Niederalpl. In Fischbach, the fire brigade had to be called out to carry out rescues on the Schanzsattel. Winter tyres are not yet compulsory, leaving road users unprepared for the sudden winter conditions.
Alternative Plans
While the cancellation of events is unfortunate, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy in Austria. In Graz, visitors can still savor traditional food, visit local highlights, and experience the lively atmosphere of the city [[1]].
Safety First
The cancellation of events due to extreme weather conditions serves as a reminder of the importance of safety. Event organizers and authorities are taking the necessary precautions to ensure the well-being of participants and visitors. We can only hope for better weather conditions in the future.
Conclusion
Austria’s extreme weather conditions have led to the cancellation of several events, including the popular ‘Aufsteirern’ Festival. Safety concerns have taken priority, and alternative plans are being made to ensure visitors can still enjoy the best of Austria. As the saying goes, “safety is our top priority.”
