Hungary: Adverse weather forecast nationwide through at least Oct. 31

Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across much of Hungary through at least Oct. 31. Storms may be accompanied by lightning, strong winds, and periods of hail. Heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes. Strong winds during storms could cause property damage and power outages.

As of early Oct. 31, the Meteorological Service of Hungary has issued orange thunderstorm warnings (the middle level on three-tier scale) across Bacs-Kiskun, Baranya, Somogy, and Tolna counties Oct. 31. Yellow thunderstorm warnings are in place across the rest of the country. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the weather alerts over the coming days.

The storms could produce rounds of heavy precipitation, strong winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity across parts of Hungary. 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.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. The adverse weather conditions could cause power outages throughout the affected area.

The severe weather could contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Strong winds might pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. 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 affected areas. 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.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.