Look East

Like an annoying sales assistant that just won't leave you alone - the wicked wind from the East is back again this week in Berlin. It's calling card? Biting through all the layers of clothing that you care to put on until your skin feels like it is burning - and then not leaving you in peace until you have returned home and spent 20 minutes under a hot shower.

Most weather experts who subscribe to this blog will probably say that my assessment of Berlin's weather freak-out is scientifically wrong and that "we are actually currently experiencing a low-pressure system over all of western Europe which is being caused by the Gulf Stream and other cloud winds operating between 10,000 and 15,000 feet". But, I have findings that back up my statements you see. Today, I was hanging out at Osthafen on the Spree (skimming rocks on the river) and I couldn't help but notice that the wind was particularly cold when I turned to face an easterly direction. I think that's proof enough.

I am prepared to admit that just about all of Germany is suffering from very cold temperatures at the moment. In fact, EVEN Germany's larger than life ex-goalkeeper Oliver Kahn was grounded in Munich today due to snow and ice at the airport. As a result he wasn't able to take the balls out of the bowl at the 2011 Women's World Cup final draw which took place in Frankfurt tonight. Everyone was very disappointed.

But anyway, back to the topic at hand. I think all of you who have been here in winter know now that Berlin feels 10 degrees colder than anywhere else in Germany .... and I am blaming the winds from the East!