Czech news in brief for December 31: Wednesday's top afternoon headlines

Heavy snowfall across the Czech Republic on Dec. 31 caused dozens of traffic accidents and disrupted public transport. The Karlovy Vary region reported about 36 crashes, while a garbage truck collision in Nymburk killed one person and injured two. Roads in the Central Bohemian, Vysočina, Hradec Králové, and Krkonoše regions were slippery, with trucks especially affected. Meteorologists warned of continued snow, frost, and snowdrifts through Thursday morning.

A new Czech criminal law taking effect Jan. 1 names communism alongside Nazism, prompting protests and legal uncertainty. Demonstrators warn the vague wording could criminalize left-wing ideas. Legal experts say its impact depends on court interpretation, including for Soviet-era souvenirs sold in tourist areas, such as hammer-and-sickle hats and mats. Since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, such symbols are increasingly viewed as offensive rather than harmless.

Starting Jan. 1, 2026, long-term tethering of dogs will be prohibited in Czechia. Violators may face fines up to 1 million CZK for individuals and 3 million CZK for businesses. Short-term tethering under supervision is permitted for feeding, grooming, or training purposes. The law aims to improve animal welfare, although some critics argue that the wording may complicate everyday care.

The youngest Humboldt penguin at Prague Zoo hatched two weeks ago, weighing just 78 grams. Now nearly six times heavier, the chick is being well cared for by its experienced parents, Sněhurka and Kulička. When fully grown, it will weigh over four kilos. Its gender will be confirmed through DNA testing.

Czech Railways, Deutsche Bahn, and Danish State Railways will launch a Prague-Copenhagen ComfortJet route May 1, 2026, reviving a link discontinued in 2014. CNN Travel named the line one of the world’s most exciting new trains for 2026. Covering 530 miles with stops in Dresden, Berlin, and Hamburg, the ComfortJet will operate up to three daily pairs, reaching speeds of up to 230 km/h, and feature family areas and a restaurant car.