Czech Republic: Adverse winter weather forecast across central, eastern, and northern regions through at least early Jan. 23

Adverse winter weather conditions are forecast across parts of the central, eastern, and northern Czech Republic through at least early Jan. 23. Freezing rain is expected across much of the affected area, with snowfall possible at higher elevations. Strong winds are also likely in far northern and eastern regions. Strong wind gusts may cause blowing and drifting snow in mountainous areas. Hazardous travel conditions are likely due to reduced visibility and slippery roads. Sporadic power outages are possible throughout the affected area.

As of Jan. 22, the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (CHMI) has issued the following weather warnings across the country.

• Red ice warnings (the highest on a three-tier scale): Parts of eastern Pardubice Region.

• Orange ice warnings: Parts of central, eastern, and northern Hradec Kralove, western Moravian-Silesian, east-central Pardubice, north-central Olomouc, central, northern, and western South Bohemian, and eastern and southern Vsyocina regions.

• Yellow Ice warnings: Across much of the rest of the affected area.

• Yellow strong wind warnings: Across Moravian-Silesian and parts of northern Liberec and northern Olomouc regions.

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

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.