28 Sep 2022 | 09:20 AM UTC
Croatia: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least Oct. 1
Severe weather forecast across much of Croatia through at least Oct. 1. Disruptions to transport, business, and utilities possible.
Event
Thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and strong winds are forecast across much of Croatia through at least Oct. 1. Storms may be accompanied by heavy downpours, strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail. The most severe weather is forecast in northeastern regions, with rainfall totals of over 5 cm (2 inches) expected in Gospic and Rijeka regions Sept. 29.
As of Sept. 28, Croatia's State Hydrometeorological Institute (DHMZ) has issued yellow thunderstorm warnings for Rijeka Region and yellow strong wind warnings for most coastal waters Sept. 28, as well as the following weather warnings across the country for Sept. 29:
Orange heavy rainfall warnings (the second-highest level on a three-tier scale): Gospic and Rijeka regions.
Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Across all regions.
Yellow strong wind warnings: Across most coastal waters.
Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
The storms could produce rounds of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity across the affected areas. 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 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.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds 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. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles.
Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected areas. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts along the Adriatic Coast 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.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated emergency and weather information. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through affected areas. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
