Albania: Disruptions ongoing following storms across much of the country as of June 10

Event

Disruptions are ongoing across parts of Albania as of June 10 following heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. The worst of the conditions occurred June 9, with further storms forecast throughout June 10 before conditions begin to improve over the weekend.

Some areas of central Albania received up to 5 cm (2 inches) of rainfall June 9, causing several rivers to burst their banks and inundating low-lying areas. One fatality was reported and another person was injured after a home caught fire after being struck by lightning. Another fatality was reported off Vlore County after a person drowned in rough seas. Several homes have been damaged by flooding and lightning strikes across the country. The Lana River overflowed in Tirana and power outages were also reported in parts of the capital. Many roads across Albania have been inundated by flood waters, leading to traffic congestion, and some routes have been blocked by landslides, including the Elbasan-Peqin road.

Hazardous Conditions
Further sustained heavy rainfall could trigger additional flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed 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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.

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 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 across the affected region. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts along the Adriatic and Ionia coasts if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

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.