Poland: Adverse winter weather forecast across southern regions through at least Dec. 3

Adverse winter weather conditions are forecast across parts of southern Poland through at least Dec. 3. Mixed wintry precipitation, including heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and rain, is expected in the region over the coming days. Snowfall accumulations of 30-40 cm (12-16 inches) are possible in parts of the affected area.

As of Dec. 1, the Polish Institute of Meteorology and Water Management has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area:

• Red heavy snowfall warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Parts of southern Lesser Poland and central and eastern Subcarpathia provinces.

• Orange snowfall warnings: Parts of central, eastern, and western Lesser Poland, southern Lublin, and eastern and northern Subcarpathia provinces.

• Orange freezing rain warnings: Parts of southern Subcarpathia Province.

• Yellow snowfall warnings: Across the rest of the affected area not under red or orange heavy snowfall warnings.

• Yellow freezing rain warnings: Parts of eastern and southern Lesser Poland, southern Lublin, and central, eastern, and western Subcarpathia provinces.

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Parts of southern Subcarpathia Province.

Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts could lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Sporadic power outages are possible throughout the affected area.

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.