22 Oct 2021 | 06:23 AM UTC
Europe: Adverse weather due to Storm Aurore ongoing across central Europe through at least Oct. 23 /update 1
Strong winds due to Storm Aurore ongoing across central Europe through at least Oct. 23. Disruptions ongoing.
Event
Strong winds due to Storm Aurore are forecast across central and eastern Europe through at least Oct. 23. Affected area includes Belarus, Estonia, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland.
Authorities have issued the following warnings:
Orange (second-highest level on a four-tier scale) warnings for strong wind: most of Belarus, northern and western Estonia, northern Germany,northern and western Latvia, western Lithuania, and far northern Poland
Yellow strong wind warnings: the rest of the affected area
Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days. The storm reportedly killed at least four people in Lower Silesian Voivodeship, Poland, due to falling trees and damaged buildings.
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 cannot be discounted 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 winds, flooding, or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Deutsche Bahn in Germany temporarily suspended all long-distance services in North Rhine-Westphalia State and services were severely disrupted across most of the country. As of early Oct. 22, most services have resumed but delays and further disruptions are possible. Strong winds, flooding, and debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Authorities could temporarily close some routes that become obstructed.
Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Debris could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see strong winds and obstructions on the tracks.
Localized business disruptions may occur in the affected areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of damage to facilities and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
