08 Apr 2022 | 12:21 PM UTC
Czech Republic: Adverse weather forecast across western regions through at least April 9
Heavy snowfall and possible flooding forecast across parts of western Czech Republic through at least April 9. Possible disruptions.
Event
Heavy snowfall and possible flooding are forecast across western parts of the Czech Republic through at least April 9. The adverse weather is associated with a cold front moving across central Europe. Around 3 cm (1 inch) snowfall per hour is possible in western regions late April 8-early April 9, and rising river levels could lead to flooding in southwestern regions.
As of April 8, the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (CHMI) has issued the following weather warnings:
Orange heavy snowfall warnings: Across Karlovy Vary Region and parts of northern Plzen and far western Central Bohemia regions.
Yellow snowfall warnings: Parts of western Usti nad Labem Region.
Yellow flood warnings: Parts of southern Plzen and western South Bohemian regions.
Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Rounds of heavy precipitation (including rain and snow) are possible across western regions in the coming days. Where precipitation falls as rain, flash and areal flooding is possible. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water and in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.
Precipitation could fall as snow in the higher elevations over the coming days. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in mountainous areas. Rain-induced landslides cannot be discounted in areas of elevated terrain; there is also the possibility of avalanches in mountainous areas where the snowpack has become unstable due to heavy snowfall. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.
Transport
Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Heavy snow will likely make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations. Mountain passes and tunnels could be closed as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall.
The disruptive weather will likely cause some delays and cancellations at airports in the region. Flooding/snow could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.
Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or avalanches, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business arrangements before traveling in the affected area. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast; plan for possible supply chain disruptions throughout the 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 and mountainous regions where avalanches pose a threat. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
