21 Sep 2023 | 08:39 AM UTC
Switzerland: Adverse weather forecast across central, eastern, southern, and western regions through at least Sept. 22
Heavy rainfall forecast across parts of central, eastern, southern, and western Switzerland through at least Sept. 22. Disruptions possible.
Event
Severe weather is forecast to occur in parts of central, eastern, southern, and western Switzerland through at least Sept. 22. Heavy rainfall is expected to begin on the south side of the Alps Sept. 21, before spreading across the central and eastern Alps through Sept. 22. MeteoSwiss has warned of possible flooding in Ticino Canton and parts of the central and eastern Alps due to continues heavy rainfall.
As of Sept. 21, MeteoSwiss has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area:
Red heavy rainfall warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Parts of central and western Grissons and southern Uri cantons.
Orange heavy rainfall warnings: Across much of the rest of eastern, east-central, and southeastern Switzerland, as well as Ticino Canton.
Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Parts of central, northeastern, and western Switzerland.
Yellow strong wind warnings: Parts of central and eastern Switzerland.
Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming day.
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 cannot be discounted in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant winds, flooding, or landslides impact utility networks.
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 likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
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.
