31 May 2023 | 09:07 AM UTC
Kosovo, Serbia: Adverse weather forecast across Kosovo and Serbia through at least June 2 /update 1
Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms forecast across Kosovo and Serbia through June 2. Transport, business, and utility disruptions possible.
Event
Rounds of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across Kosovo and Serbia through at least June 2. Storms may be accompanied by strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail. Rainfall totals of 2-5 cm (0.8-2 inches) within the space of a few hours are possible in affected areas. River levels are forecast to exceed flood levels in most major rivers and their tributaries from May 31-June 1, which will likely trigger widespread flooding in low-lying areas.
As of May 31, the Republic Hydrometeorological Service of Serbia has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area:
- Orange (the middle level on a three-tier scale) heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings: Backa, Banat, Belgrade, Pomoravlje, Srem, Southwestern, Sumadija, and Western regions in Serbia.
- Yellow heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings: Eastern and Southeastern regions in Serbia and across Kosovo.
Further orange and yellow warnings for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are in place across Kosovo and Serbia June 1-2. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the weather alerts over the coming hours and 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 or lack 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 cannot be discounted in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. The adverse weather conditions could cause power outages throughout the affected area.
Transport
The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Strong winds might pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. 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.
Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments prior to travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays, as well as 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.
