10 Jan 2023 | 01:21 PM UTC
Romania: Adverse weather forecast across south-central and southwestern regions through at least Jan. 12
Heavy rainfall and snowfall forecast across parts of Romania through at least Jan. 12. Flooding and associated disruptions possible.
Event
Heavy rainfall, snowfall, and strong winds are forecast across parts of south-central and southwestern Romania through at least Jan. 12. Precipitation is forecast to fall as rain in lower elevations, with a mix of rain and snow expected in central and western mountain ranges and predominantly snow in the southern and eastern Carpathians. Precipitation totals of 2.5-5 cm (1-2 inches) are expected across the affected area, with rainfall totals of 5-6 cm (2-2.4 inches) possible in Buzau, Prahova, and Vrancea counties, as well as mountainous parts of northern Dambovita County. Winds gusting up 90 kph (56 mph) are possible in the southern and eastern Carpathians.
As of Jan. 10, the Romanian National Meteorological Administration has issued the following weather warnings across the country:
Orange heavy rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Buzau, northern Dambovita, Prahova, and Vrancea counties.
Yellow heavy precipitation and strong wind warnings: Across the rest of the affected area.
Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories, as weather conditions change over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Where precipitation falls as rain, flash and areal flooding is possible. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water, as well as in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.
Precipitation could fall as snow in higher elevations over the coming days. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in mountainous areas. Rain-induced landslides cannot be discounted in areas of elevated terrain; there is also the possibility of avalanches in mountainous areas where the snowpack has become unstable due to heavy snowfall. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.
Transport
Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Heavy snow will likely make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations. Mountain passes and tunnels could be closed as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall.
The disruptive weather will likely cause some delays and cancellations at airports in the region. Flooding and/or snow could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.
Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or avalanches, 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-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business arrangements before traveling in the affected area. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast; plan for possible supply chain disruptions throughout the affected areas. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides, as well as mountainous regions where avalanches pose a threat. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
