19 Aug 2022 | 11:47 AM UTC
Poland: Adverse weather forecast across western and central regions through at least Aug. 21
Thunderstorms forecast across much of western and central Poland through at least Aug. 21. Disruptions possible.
Event
Following days of extreme temperatures across the country, thunderstorms are forecast to break out amid the warm atmosphere over much of the western half of Poland through at least Aug. 21. Storms may be accompanied by heavy rainfall, strong winds, lightning, and possible hail. Rainfall totals of 2-4 cm (0.8-1.6 inches) and wind gusting up to 110 kph (68 mph) are possible in parts of the affected area.
As of Aug. 19, the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area:
Orange thunderstorm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Across Greater Poland, Lower Silesia, and Opole provinces, as well as parts of western and central Kujawy-Pomerania, southwestern Lodz, southern, eastern, and central Lubusz, southwestern Pomerania, and far southeastern West Pomerania provinces.
Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Across the rest of the affected area.
Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
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 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 in the affected region. 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.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood 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.
