Romania: Adverse weather forecast across northern and western regions through at least Dec. 14

Adverse weather is forecast over parts of northern and western Romania through at least Dec. 14. Heavy rainfall is forecast across the affected region, with rainfall totals 5-6 cm (2-2.4 inches) and isolated amounts of over 7 cm (2.8 inches) expected in parts of the eastern and western Carpathian mountains and totals of 2.5-4 cm (1-1.6 inches) and isolated amounts over 5 cm (2 inches) expected across the rest of the affected area. Mixed wintry precipitation is possible in elevated areas. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas, as well as triggering snowmelt in mountainous regions.

The Romanian National Meteorological Administration has issued an orange weather warning (the middle level on a three-tier scale) for heavy rainfall over parts of northwestern Alba, central and eastern Arad, eastern and southeastern Bihor, eastern and northern Bistrita-Nasaud, western Cluj, northern and western Hunedoara, central, eastern, and northwestern Maramures, northeastern Mures, central and western Salaj, northeastern Satu Mare, and far eastern Timis counties. Yellow warnings for moderate rainfall have been issued across the rest of the affected area. 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.