Central Europe: Adverse winter weather forecast across Slovenia, much of Austria, and western Hungary through at least Dec. 9

Heavy snowfall forecast across Slovenia, much of Austria, and western Hungary through at least Dec. 9. Transport disruptions possible.

Event

Heavy snowfall and ice are forecast across parts of central Europe through at least Dec. 9. The affected area inclides all of Slovenia, all of Austria with the exception of Upper Austria and Vienna, and western Hungary. As of Dec. 8, authroities have issued the following watches and warnings across the affected area:

Orange snow and ice warnings (the second-highest on a three-tier scale): Carinthia, Tyrol, and Voralberg states in Austria; northwest, southwest, southeast, and central regions of Slovenia; and Central Transdanubia region in Hungary.
Yellow snow and ice warnings: the rest of the affected area.

Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

Forecast models indicate up to 40 cm (16 inches) of snowfall is expected in some areas. 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 in the region 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. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.