14 Oct 2022 | 11:49 AM UTC
North Macedonia: Adverse weather forecast across central, eastern, and southern regions Oct. 14
Heavy rainfall and strong winds forecast across central, eastern, and southern North Macedonia Oct. 14. Flooding and disruptions possible.
Event
Severe weather is forecast across parts of central, eastern, and southern North Macedonia Oct. 14. North Macedonia's Hydrometeorological Service has issued a weather warning for heavy rainfall and strong winds across parts of the country Oct. 14. The following weather warnings have been issued across the affected area:
Red strong wind warning (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Pelagonia Region
Orange heavy rainfall warning: Vardar Region
Yellow strong wind warning: Eastern Region
Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming hours and 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 cannot be discounted in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. Strong winds could cause damage to utility infrastructure and bring sporadic power outages across parts of 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. Strong winds might pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. 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 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.
Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments prior to travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays, as well as 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.
