20 Jan 2023 | 09:32 AM UTC
Slovakia: Flooding possible across eastern regions through at least Jan. 20 due to continued heavy rain
Authorities maintain flood warnings across eastern Slovakia through Jan. 20 due to heavy rain; flooding and disruptions possible.
Event
Authorities are maintaining warnings for rising river levels across eastern Slovakia through at least Jan. 20 due to continued heavy rain. As of early Jan. 20, the Slovak Hydrometeorological Institute has issued red flood warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale) for the river basins in Sobrance District. Orange flood warnings are in place across Michalovce and Trebisov districts. River levels may rise due to the rain. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the weather alerts over the coming days.
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.
