Germany: Adverse weather forecast across southern regions through at least Nov. 17

Adverse weather is forecast across much of southern Germany through at least Nov. 17. A weather system moving eastward along the edge of the Alps is likely to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds across the region, with wintry hazards likely in elevated areas. Rainfall totals of 3-6 cm (1.2-2.4 inches) with localized higher amounts up to 9 cm (3.5 inches) are expected across the region. Winds gusting up to 140 kph (87 mph) are possible in elevated areas, as well as snowfall accumulations of up to 40 cm (16 inches).

As of Nov. 16, the German Weather Service (DWD) has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area:

• Red continuous rainfall warnings (the second highest level on a four-tier scale): Parts of southwestern Baden-Wurttemberg State.

• Red strong wind warnings: Parts of southwestern Baden-Wurttemberg and far southern Bavaria states.

• Orange continuous rainfall warnings: Parts of central and southeastern Baden-Wurttemberg, southern Bavaria, southern Rhineland-Palatinate, and southern Saarland states.

• Orange strong wind warnings: Across the rest of southern Baden-Wurttemberg and southern Bavaria states not under red warnings.

• Yellow strong wind warnings: Across south-central Baden-Wurttemberg and south-central Bavaria states.

• Yellow black ice warnings: Parts of central, eastern, and southern Baden-Wurttemberg and eastern and southern Bavaria states.

• Yellow frost warnings: Parts of eastern Bavaria State.

Officials could update and extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming hours and 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 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. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancelations are likely in areas with 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.