16 Jan 2023 | 03:42 PM UTC
Latvia: Flooding possible across Latvia through at least Jan. 18 due to high water levels /update 2
Authorities maintain water-level warnings across Latvia through at least Jan. 18. Disruptions due to flooding ongoing in Jekabpils.
Event
Authorities are maintaining warnings for high river levels due to thawing ice across Latvia through at least Jan. 18. As of Jan. 16, the Latvian Environment, Geology, and Meteorology Centre (LEGMC) has issued red water level warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale) for sections of the Daugava River near Jekabpils in eastern Zemgale Region, as well as orange water level warnings for areas to the west of the red warning area. Yellow warnings are in effect for the rest of the country. Rapid water level fluctuations are likely over the coming days due to the movement of the ice and slush. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the weather alerts over the coming days.
Water levels remain high across the country, inundating floodplains and low-lying areas. The worst-affected area is around Jekabpils, where water levels on the Daugava River reached record levels Jan. 14. The situation has been compounded by damage to a dam designed to protect the city from flooding. Hundreds of people have been evacuated from flood-threatened parts of the city in recent days; however, some residents are being allowed to return to their homes as of Jan. 16 as floodwaters have begun to recede. Schools are suspended in the city and surrounding areas due to the flood.
Hazardous Conditions
Rising water levels 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. Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity, water supply, 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. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and 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, or 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 is possible. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
