Georgia: Weather-related disruptions ongoing across parts of the country as of Feb. 7

Disruptions due to severe weather are ongoing across many parts of Georgia as of Feb. 7. Authorities have reported at least four fatalities and around five others missing following a landslide in the village of Negreeti in Imereti Region's Baghdati District overnight Feb. 6-7. The landslide struck four houses and response operations are ongoing as of Feb. 7. Heavy rainfall and associated flooding have caused disruptions to road travel and power outages in Dusheti, Tianeti, and Mtskheti municipalities in Mtskheta-Mtianeti Feb. 7. Strong winds and flooding have also been affecting parts of Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti Region, with several buildings damaged by winds and power outages reported, as well as flooding along parts of the Enguri River. Heavy rainfall triggered an avalanche and caused power outages in Khulo Municipality in the Adjaran Autonomous Republic.

Further showers and isolated thunderstorms are forecast across much of the country through at least Feb. 10, with snowfall and blizzards possible in mountainous regions. The severe weather could trigger additional flooding in low-lying areas, landslides on unstable slopes, and avalanches in mountainous areas, as well as hamper ongoing response operations.

The stormy weather in the coming days could produce rounds of heavy precipitation (including rain and snow), strong winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity. Where precipitation falls as rain, flash and areal flooding is possible. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water, as well as in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.

Precipitation could fall as snow in the higher elevations over the coming days. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in mountainous areas. Rain-induced landslides cannot be discounted in areas of elevated terrain; there is also the possibility of avalanches in mountainous areas where the snowpack has become unstable due to heavy snowfall. Power outages could occur throughout affected areas.

Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Heavy snow will likely make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations. Mountain passes and tunnels could be closed as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall.

The disruptive weather will likely cause some delays and cancellations at airports in the region. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations along the Black Sea coast if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic. Flooding or snow could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or avalanches, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.