Europe: Adverse weather forecast across parts of Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Serbia through Aug. 26

Event

Thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are forecast across parts of southeastern Europe through at least Aug. 26. Storms are forecast to break out amid an ongoing heatwave in the region and are expected to affect Kosovo and Serbia Aug. 24 and North Macedonia Aug. 24-26. Heavy rainfall, strong winds, lightning, and possible hail may accompany storms. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes. Strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.

As of Aug. 24, the meteorological agencies for the respective countries have issued the following warnings across the affected region:

• Orange heavy rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Across Kosovo and eastern and southeastern Serbia.
• Orange thunderstorm warnings: Across most of North Macedonia, with the exception of central and south-central regions.
• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Across central and southwestern Serbia.
• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Across Kosovo, central and south-central North Macedonia, and most of Serbia, with the exception of northern regions.

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
North Macedonia Hydrometeorological Service
Republic Hydrometeorological Service of Serbia