Vienna authorities urge the public not to step onto ice on natural waters
Vienna’s municipal authorities have issued a warning urging residents and visitors not to walk or skate on ice covering natural bodies of water. Even when ice appears solid, officials stress that it may be unsafe.
According to city services, ice thickness on waters such as the Alte Donau, Neue Donau, and Kaiserwasser can vary significantly. Groundwater inflows and currents beneath the surface can weaken the ice, creating dangerous thin spots.
Experts emphasize that the condition of the ice cannot be reliably assessed by sight alone. Falling through the ice into freezing water can quickly become life-threatening.
Despite the warnings, people — including families with children — have recently been seen on frozen waters. Authorities underline that natural ice surfaces are neither inspected nor officially approved for public use.
For winter activities, residents are advised to use designated and supervised ice rinks, where safety measures are in place and ice conditions are monitored.
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