Romania: Adverse weather forecast across central, northern, and western regions through at least Dec. 1

Adverse weather is forecast over parts of central, northern, and western Romania through at least Dec. 1. The Romanian National Meteorological Administration has issued a yellow weather warning (the lowest level on a three-tier scale) over much of the affected area for moderate precipitation and strong winds Nov. 30-Dec. 1. Precipitation totals of 2.5-4 cm (1-1.6 inches) and winds gusting up to 100 kph (62 mph) are expected across the regions. Initial mixed wintry precipitation is expected before it transitions to predominantly rainfall, which will cause snow to melt and increase the risk of flooding in affected areas. A separate orange warning for heavy precipitation has been issued across Maramures County and mountainous areas of Alba, Arad, Bihor, Bistrita-Nasaud, Cluj, Hunedoara, Mures, Salaj, and Satu Mare counties. Rainfall totals of 5-7 cm (2-2.8 inches) are forecast in these areas, with isolated amounts of over 8 cm (3.1 inches). Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

Where precipitation falls as rain, flash and areal flooding is possible. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water and in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.

Precipitation could fall as snow, particularly in higher elevations, over the coming days. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in affected areas. Rain-induced landslides cannot be discounted in areas of elevated terrain; there is also the possibility of avalanches in mountainous areas where the snowpack has become unstable due to heavy precipitation. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.

Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Heavy snow will likely make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations. Mountain passes and tunnels could be closed as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall.

The disruptive weather will likely cause some delays and cancellations at airports in the region. Flooding and/or snow could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or avalanches, 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.