Luxembourg: Flood-threat forecast to persist across the country through at least early Jan. 6 /update 1

The threat of flooding is forecast to persist across Luxembourg through at least early Jan. 6. Heavy rainfall in recent days has led to many rivers reaching dangerous levels across the country. Rainfall levels are expected to begin to diminish through Jan. 4; however, the flood threat is likely to continue over the coming days. MeteoLux has issued red flood warnings across the southern half of the country and orange flood warnings for the northern half through 23:59 Jan. 5. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days. Several roads, car parks, and other public infrastructure remain closed across Luxembourg as of early Jan. 4 due to the risk of additional flooding; full details on closures can be found here.

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 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 the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming hours. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, 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 regional airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.