Austria: Adverse weather forecast across central and southern regions through at least Aug. 5

Event

Heavy rainfall is forecast across parts of central and southern Austria through at least Aug. 5. The heaviest rainfall is ongoing in southern regions early Aug. 4, where rainfall totals of 9-13 cm (3.5-5.1 inches) have already fallen in parts of southern and southeastern Carinthia Province. Flooding, landslides, and road closures have been reported in the area and civil protection authorities have warned people to stay out of basements and to boil water due to possible flood contamination. Further less intense showers are expected across central and southern regions through the rest of Aug. 4 and into Aug. 5. Additional heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes.

As of Aug. 4, the Central Institution for Meteorology and Geodynamics (ZAMG) has issued the following warnings across the affected area:

• Red heavy rainfall warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Across parts of southern Carinthia Province.

• Orange heavy rainfall warnings: Across much of central and eastern Carinthia and parts of southern Burgenland and southern Styria provinces.

• Yellow heavy rainfall 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 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 possible 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)