Hungary: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least Dec. 15

Adverse weather is forecast over much of Hungary through at least Dec 15. Showers are expected in western regions late Dec. 12 before heavy rainfall spreads across much of the country Dec. 13. Rainfall totals of around 2-3 cm (0.8-1.2 inches) are expected in most areas Dec. 13. Further showers are expected in many parts of the country Dec. 14-15, with snowfall possible in elevated areas. Persistent heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes.

The Meteorological Service of Hungary has issued the following weather warnings across the country Dec. 13:

• Orange heavy rainfall warnings (middle level on a three-tier scale): Baranya, Somogy, and Zala counties.

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Bacs-Kiskun, Bekes, Csongrad-Csanad, Fejer, Hadju-Bihar, Jasz-Nagykun-Szolnok, Pest, Szabolcs-Szatmar-Bereg, Tokna, Vas, and Veszprem counties.

Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change 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 or a lack of 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 rainfall 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, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges 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 across the affected region.

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.