Estonia, Latvia: Adverse winter weather forecast across both countries through at least Nov. 24

Adverse winter weather is forecast across much of Estonia and Latvia through at least Nov. 24. A weather system is forecast to approach the Baltic nations from the northwest late Nov. 22, bringing strong winds and snowfall across the region. Blizzard conditions are possible in parts of the affected area and reduced visibility is likey due to blowing snow. Winds gusting up to 108 kph (67 mph) and snowfall accumulations up to 15 cm (6 inches) are possible during the passing of the weather system. Hazardous travel conditions are likely due to the reduced visibility and icy roads.

As of Nov. 22, the Estonian Environment Agency has issued orange snowfall and blizzard warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale) across the country. Orange ice warnings have been issued for Harju, Ida-Viru, Jarva, Jogeva, Laane, Laane-Viru, Parnu, Polva, Rapla, Tartu, Valga, Viljandi, and Voru counties. Orange strong wind warnings are in place for all coastal areas, Lake Peipus, and Harju, Hiiu, Ida-Viru, Laane, Laane-Viru, Parnu, and Saare counties. Yellow strong wind warnings are in place across the rest of the county.

The Latvian Environment, Geology, and Meteorology Center (LVGMC) has issued an orange snow warning across eastern Pieriga and western Vidzeme regions and orange wind warnings for coastal areas. Yellow snow warnings are in place across much of the rest of the country, with the exception of western coastal areas, and yellow strong wind warnings are in place across central and western Latvia.

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

The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions in the region over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports.