Latvia: Flooding possible across eastern regions through at least April 9 due to rising water levels

Event

Authorities are maintaining warnings for rising river levels across much of eastern Latvia through at least April 9. 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 April 4, 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 Duagava River in Augsduagava Municipality through April 7. At least eight parishes in the municipality are being affected by flooding as the river has burst its banks between Vaikulani and Jersica. Dozens of homes have been submerged and several roads have been made impassable due to the floodwaters. Authorities have evacuated an unconfirmed number of people in the area. Yellow warnings are in effect across the rest of the affected area through April 9. 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.

Resources

Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre (LEGMC)