09 Apr 2023 | 04:12 AM UTC
Latvia: Flooding possible across eastern regions through at least April 11 due to high water levels
Authorities maintain water-level warnings across eastern Latvia through April 11. Flooding ongoing in tributaries in lower Daugava River.
Event
Authorities are maintaining warnings for high water levels across eastern Latvia through at least April 11. As of early April 9, the Latvian Environment, Geology, and Meteorology Centre (LEGMC) has issued orange water level warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale) for parts of the southeastern regions of Latvia, and yellow warnings are in effect for the rest of eastern Latvia. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the weather alerts over the coming days. Water levels continue to rise in the Daugava River, especially near Jersika and Vaikulani. The tributaries in the lower part of the Daugava River are flooded. Authorities have warned that areas near Daugavpils City are likely to be flooded.
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.
