24 Mar 2023 | 03:39 PM UTC
Latvia: Flooding possible across central and eastern regions through at least March 28 due to rising water levels
Authorities maintain water-level warnings across central and eastern Latvia through at least March 28; flooding and disruptions possible.
Event
Authorities are maintaining warnings for rising river levels across eastern and central parts of the country through at least March 28. River levels are rising due to a combination of melting snow and rainfall; further rises could see rivers burst their banks causing flooding in floodplains and low-lying areas. As of March 24, the Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre (LEGMC) have issued orange water-level warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale) for areas along the banks of the Almata River in the western Vidzeme Region through March 26. Yellow warnings are in effect across the affected area through March 28. 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.
