Winter Storms Disrupt Container Shipping Across Europe

Severe winter weather is causing notable disruption to container shipping operations across Western and Northern Europe. Strong storms, heavy snowfall and icy conditions have forced several ports and terminals to temporarily halt services, with vessels taking shelter at sea to avoid hazardous conditions.

Major carriers, including Maersk and CMA CGM, have reported delays and operational challenges as terminal productivity falls and inland transport becomes slower due to frozen infrastructure and dangerous roads. This has led to longer waits for both export and import cargo, rattling supply chains that connect key European hubs.

Ports in southern and western regions – from the Bay of Biscay through to parts of Spain, Portugal and up into northern Europe – have seen temporary closures or restricted activity, with no clear timetable for full normalisation yet.

For logistics providers and shippers, this weather-related disruption underlines the importance of flexibility in planning, proactive communication with carriers, and monitoring conditions closely to mitigate delays and downstream congestion.