Central Europe: Adverse weather forecast across parts of Austria, Germany, Liechtenstein, Slovakia, and Switzerland through at least May 17

Event

Heavy rainfall is forecast across parts of central Europe through at least May 17. The affected area includes much of Austria, Liechtenstein, Slovakia, parts of southern Germany, and central and eastern Switzerland. Rainfall totals of 3-8 cm (1.2-3.1 inches) are possible across parts of the affected areas. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes. As of May 16, the meteorological agencies for the respective countries have issued orange rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale in all areas except Germany where it is the second lowest level on a four-tier scale) for parts of east-central Austria, southern Bavaria in Germany, across Liechtenstein, western Slovakia, and central and eastern Switzerland. Yellow heavy rainfall warnings are in place across much of the rest of Austria and Slovakia. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall 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. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity 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. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential 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, and 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 has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

MeteoAlarm
Austria Central Institution for Meteorology and Geodynamics (ZAMG)
Germany Deutscher Wetterdienst (DWD)
Slovak Hydrometeorological Institute (SHMU)
Switzerland Federal Office of Meteorology and Climatology