Europe: Flooding and associated disruptions due to Storm Babet ongoing across parts of the region as of early Oct. 21

Event

Adverse weather associated with Storm Babet and associated low-pressure areas is forecast to continue to affect northern Germany, Denmark, southern Norway, and southern Sweden through at least Oct. 21. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas, and strong winds are likely to cause property damage and power outages. Associated disruptions to transport are probable during the passing of the storm.

As of early Oct. 21, the various meteorological agencies have issued the following warnings Oct. 21:

• Red elevated water level warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Southern Little Belt Strait and South Funen Archipelago in Denmark

• Orange wind warnings: Parts of parts of Agder, Rogaland, and Vestland in Norway

• Yellow wind warnings: Most of the rest of the affected area

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

Authorities in Denmark have evacuated people in Sandersvig Strand on the Jutland peninsula due to a breached dike and residents in Mon Island due to flooding. Copenhagen Airport (CPH) has canceled dozens of flights. Due to the adverse weather, the Swedish Transportation Authority has suspended several train services and bus lines in southern Sweden. Authorities in Norway closed the Hardanger Bridge due to strong winds. Scandlines has suspended some ferry routes between Denmark and Germany. Ferries to some North Sea islands were also canceled. More than 15,000 people in Sorlandet, southern Norway, were without power late Oct. 20. Reports indicate floods are affecting parts of Flensburg, Kiel, and Wismar cities in Germany.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger further flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rain has saturated the soil. Further disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are probable where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities will likely temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Severe weather will likely trigger further flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Flooding will probably block regional rail lines; additional freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions are probable 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-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations before traveling in affected areas. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast; plan for possible supply chain disruptions throughout the affected areas. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.