13 Sep 2022 | 08:27 AM UTC
Germany: Adverse weather forecast across western, central, and southern regions through at least Sept. 16
Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms forecast across parts of Germany through at least Sept. 16. Possible flooding and associated disruptions.
Event
Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across parts of western, central, and southern Germany through at least Sept. 16. A band of showers and thunderstorms is forecast to move over western and central parts of the country Sept. 13 and will spread southwards overnight Sept. 13-14. Rainfall amounts of 2-4 cm (0.8-1.6 inches) are expected across affected areas, with isolated totals of 5-7 cm (2-2.8 inches). The band of weather is expected to persist Sept. 14 and strong storms are possible in southern regions. Isolated showers and storms are expected to continue in central and southern regions Sept. 15, retreating further south throughout the day. Further isolated thunderstorm activity and downpours are expected in northwestern regions Sept. 16.
As of Sept. 13, the German Weather Service (DWD) has issued the following warnings across the affected area:
Orange heavy rainfall warnings (the second lowest level on a four-tier scale): Parts of northern Baden-Wurttemberg, northern Bavaria, western and northern Hesse, southern and southwestern North Rhine-Westphalia, central, Rhineland-Palatinate, Saarland, southern and southwestern Saxony, and central and southern Thuringia states.
Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming hours and days.
Hazardous Conditions
The storms could produce rounds of heavy precipitation, strong winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity. Heavy rainfall could trigger flash and areal flooding in parts of the affected area. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water, as well as 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. Strong winds associated with the storms could down power lines and cause power outages in the affected area.
Transport
The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Flooding downpours could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Hazardous weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region.
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 the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
