Eastern Europe: Adverse winter weather forecast across parts of Poland and Slovakia through at least Dec. 12

Event

Adverse winter weather conditions are forecast across parts of Poland and Slovakia through at least Dec. 12. As of Dec. 9, the Poland Institute of Meteorology and Water Management has issued orange freezing rain warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale) for parts of southern Lesser Poland and southeastern Silesia provinces. Yellow ice warnings have been issued across Warmia-Masuria Province and parts of northern Masovia, northern and central Podlasie, northwestern Pomerania, and northern and western West Pomerania provinces. The institute has also forecast heavy snowfall across central and southern parts of the country Dec. 11, as well as freezing rain in the southeast. Snowfall accumulations of up to 20 cm (8 inches) are expected in affected areas and blizzard conditions are possible due to strong winds.

The Slovak Hydrometeorological Institute (SHMU) has issued orange and yellow snowfall warnings across parts of central Slovakia Dec. 9, as well as yellow ice and strong winds over mountains warnings. Snowfall accumulations of 20-30 cm (8-12 inches) are forecast in the orange warning areas. Further yellow ice, snowdrift, and strong wind warnings are in place over much of the country Dec. 10-11.

Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the days. Hazardous travel conditions are likely due to icy roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow.

Transport
The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions in the region over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports.

Advice

Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. Plan accordingly for delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

MeteoAlarm
Poland Institute of Meteorology and Water Management - National Research Institute (IMGW-PIB)
Slovak Hydrometeorological Institute (SHMU)