26 Jul 2023 | 07:52 AM UTC
Poland: Adverse weather forecast across southern and southeastern regions through at least July 27
Severe weather forecast across southern and southeastern Poland through July 27. Transport, business, and utility disruptions possible.
Event
Thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are forecast across much of southern and southeastern Poland through at least July 27. Strong winds, lightning, and possible hail may accompany storms. Rainfall totals of 3-7 cm (1-3 inches) and winds gusting up to 80 kph (50 mph) are likely across the affected regions. Heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds could cause property damage and power outages.
As of July 24, the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) has issued the following warnings across the affected area:
Orange heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Across much of Lesser Poland, central and southern Lublin, and eastern, northern, northeastern, and western Subcarpathia, and southern Swietokrzyskie provinces.
Yellow heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings: Across the rest of the affected area.
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 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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.
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 updated emergency and weather information. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through affected areas. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
