Europe: Heavy snow forecast across parts of eastern Europe through at least Jan. 26

Event

A storm system will continue to bring heavy snowfall and strong winds to portions of eastern Europe through at least Jan. 26. The affected areas include eastern Poland, southwestern Belarus, and northwestern Ukraine. As of Jan. 25, the European Meteorological Service has issued red level warnings, the most severe on a four-tiered scale - for heavy snowfall in far southeastern Poland. Orange-level warnings - the second-highest on the four-tiered scale - for heavy snowfall and strong winds are in effect for eastern Poland and southwestern Belarus. Additionally, yellow-level warnings for heavy snowfall and strong winds are in effect across northwestern Ukraine and eastern Poland. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

Hazardous Conditions
The latest forecast guidance indicates that widespread accumulations of 15-25 cm (6-9 inches) of snow are expected in the hardest-hit areas, including eastern Poland. Locally higher totals of up to 30 cm (12 inches) are possible in regions that experience the most intense banding. Lesser accumulations could occur where sleet and freezing rain mix with the snow especially in western Ukraine. In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts could lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Sporadic power outages are possible throughout the affected area.

Transport
The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions across portions of eastern Europe over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area.

Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports.

Advice

Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. Plan accordingly for delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area through at least Jan. 26. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

MeteoAlarm
Department of Hydrometeorology (Belarus)
Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (Poland)
Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Center