04 Jul 2023 | 05:33 AM UTC
Kosovo, Serbia: Adverse weather forecast across the region through at least July 6
Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms forecast across Kosovo and Serbia through July 6. Transport, business, and utility disruptions possible.
Event
Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across Kosovo and Serbia through at least July 6. Storms may bring strong wind gusts, lightning, and hail. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes. Strong winds during thunderstorms could cause property damage and power outages.
As of early July 4, 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: across eastern and southern Serbia and Kosovo July 5.
- Yellow thunderstorm and heavy rainfall warnings: across western Serbia and Kosovo July 4, across the rest of Serbia July 5, and across Serbia and Kosovo July 6.
Officials could update and 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 stormwater drainage systems. Sites 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 could 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 regional airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with 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. Repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions if there is severe damage to infrastructure.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments prior to travel. Make allowances for potential localized travel delays and supply chain disruptions where flooding is forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
