Romania: Heavy thunderstorms, strong winds, and hail forecast across central and eastern Romania through at least early July 2

Heavy thunderstorms, strong winds, and hail forecast across central and eastern Romania through at least early July 2.

Event

Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, strong wind gusts, and hail are forecast across central and eastern Romania through at least early July 2. Authorities have issued orange and yellow-level weather warnings for all of Romania, excluding the western counties of Bihor, Arad, Timis, Caras-Severin, and Mehedinti.

Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding, strong winds, or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces and strong winds could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts along the Black Sea if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding and debris could block rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or debris is cleared. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or construction efforts may result in residual disruptions.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business arrangements prior to travel in the affected area through at least July 2. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast; plan for possible supply chain disruptions if routing shipments through affected areas. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.