ÖBB has begun its preparations for the winter season, with 4,500 employees assigned to manage operations across Austria’s rail network during challenging weather conditions.
Winter operations involve a combination of advanced machinery and manual labor. Equipment includes a high-performance snow blower capable of clearing up to 15,000 tons per hour in temperatures as low as -25°C. Additional snow blowers, brushes, and 19 rail-mounted snowplows are distributed throughout the network to ensure operational continuity.
Scientific support for winter service
Preparations extend beyond snow removal. ÖBB collaborates with academic institutions to inspect, maintain, and renew protective structures before winter. The company operates 54 weather stations integrated into a wider meteorological network, which provides detailed forecasts and warnings. These systems, supported by localized wind measurement points, offer route-specific data to plan for weather-related challenges.
Avalanche risk assessment is another key component of ÖBB’s winter strategy. Experts within the company’s 10 avalanche commissions use data from the infra
system to analyze snow cover and forecast potential risks. This information is shared with official avalanche warning services to align safety measures.
Manual tasks remain a critical element
Despite technological advancements, much of the winter service involves manual labor. Teams handle tasks such as de-icing bridges and tunnels, shoveling snow from platform roofs, and clearing railway crossings. Technicians and rail supervisors work to ensure systems are fully operational ahead of the cold season, while dispatchers coordinate alternative measures during route interruptions caused by snow or ice.
Key figures for ÖBB’s winter operations
- Annual budget: 40 million euros
- Avalanche protection: 212.5 kilometers of protective structures inspected
- Slope monitoring: 4,750 hectares of rock and embankment slopes
- Protective forests: 3,370 hectares managed
- Switch heating: Two-thirds of 13,000 switches equipped
- Weather monitoring: 54 stations, including 22 in high mountain regions
- Employees: 4,500 dedicated to winter service
- Snow removal equipment: Three self-propelled snow blowers, 19 snow plows, and 77 snow blowers or brushes
- Station maintenance: Over 1,000 train stations and stops cleared of snow and ice
These measures are part of ÖBB’s approach to maintaining its infrastructure during the winter months, ensuring continued rail operations in varying conditions.
