Austria: Adverse weather forecast across the region through at least Oct. 31

Heavy rainfall is forecast across parts of southern Austria through at least Oct. 31. Rainfall totals of 7-10 cm (2.8-3.9 inches) are forecast across parts of southwestern Carinthia and southeastern Tyrol states, with localized higher amounts possible. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes.

As of Oct. 30, the Austria Central Institution for Meteorology and Geodynamics (ZAMG) has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area:

• Orange heavy rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Parts of southwestern Carinthia and southeastern Tyrol states.

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Parts of central and northwestern Carinthia, southern Salzburg, far western Styria, and eastern and southern Tyrol states.

• Yellow strong wind warnings: Parts of southern Salzburg and southern Tyrol states.

Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as conditions change over the coming days.

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.

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.