Europe: Adverse weather forecast across parts of the region through at least Nov. 8

Severe weather is forecast across parts of southeastern Europe through at least Nov. 8. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected across much of Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia. Strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail may accompany storms. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.

As of Nov. 7, the Republic Hydrometeorological Service of Serbia has issued yellow heavy rainfall and strong wind warnings (the lowest level on a three-tier scale) across northern regions Nov. 7. Orange heavy rainfall warnings are in place for Kosovo and southeastern Serbia Nov. 8, as well as yellow heavy rainfall warnings across central and the rest of southern Serbia and yellow strong wind warnings for Kosovo and southwestern Serbia.

Montenegro's Institute for Hydrometeorology and Seismology (ZHMS) has issued yellow thunderstorm warnings for the Adriatic coast region and yellow strong wind warning for the Adriatic coast and Continental and Mountains regions Nov. 7. Orange heavy rainfall warnings have been issued for the Adriatic coast region and yellow heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings for the Central region Nov. 8.

North Macedonia's Hydrometeorological Service has issued a weather warning advising that showers will spread from northern and northwestern regions across much of the country Nov. 8, with thunderstorms and localized torrential downpours possible. Strong winds are forecast in central regions during the afternoon Nov. 8.

Officials will likely update and extend the coverage of weather alerts 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 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 rain 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. The disruptive weather may cause delays and cancellations at airports in the affected regions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.

Localized business disruptions may occur in areas impacted by severe weather; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.