Romania, Serbia: Adverse weather forecast across parts of both countries through at least Sept. 2 /update 1

Event

Thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are forecast over parts of Romania and Serbia through at least Sept. 2. Storms could be accompanied by strong wind gusts, hail, and lightning.

As of Sept. 1, the Romanian National Meteorological Administration has issued orange rainfall warnings across Alba, Arad, Caras-Severin, Cluj, Dolj, Gorj, Hunedoara, Mehedinti, Mures, Olt, Sibiu, Timis, and Valcea counties Sept. 1-2, as well as parts of eastern and southeastern Bihor County. Rainfall totals of 4-6 cm (1.6-2.4 inches), with localized amounts of 7-8 cm (2.8-3.1 inches) are expected in these areas. Yellow thunderstorm warnings have been issued across western, central, northern, and southwestern parts of the country Sept. 1-2, as well as over mountainous areas. Rainfall totals of 2.5-4 cm (1-1.6 inches) accompanied by lightning, strong wind gusts, and possible hail are possible in these areas.

The Republic Hydrometeorological Service of Serbia has issued orange heavy rainfall warnings across the country Sept. 1, with the exception of southwestern areas which are under yellow heavy rainfall warnings. Orange thunderstorm warnings have been issued for central, eastern, southeastern, and western areas and yellow thunderstorm warnings across the rest of the country Sept. 1. Orange heavy rainfall warnings have been issued for central, eastern, southeastern, and southwestern parts of the country and yellow heavy rainfall warnings for northwestern and western regions Sept. 2. Yellow thunderstorm warnings are in place for parts of central, southeastern, and southwestern Serbia Sept. 2.

Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories, as weather conditions change 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 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 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 regions. 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 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.

Resources

MeteoAlarm
Romania National Meteorological Administration
Republic Hydrometeorological Service of Serbia