Northeastern Europe: Adverse winter weather forecast across parts of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania through at least Dec. 21

Event

Adverse winter weather conditions are forecast across parts of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania through at least Dec. 21. Hazardous travel conditions are likely across the region due to icy roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow.

As of early Dec. 20, the Latvian Environment, Geology, and Meteorology Center (LVGMC) has issued orange ice warnings across the country through Dec. 21. The Lithuanian Hydrometeorological Service and Estonia Environment Agency have issued yellow ice and fog warnings across the respective countries over the same period. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the days.

The winter weather will probably 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
Estonian Environment Agency
Latvian Environment, Geology, and Meteorology Center (LVGMC)
Lithuanian Hydrometeorological Service