Austria, Slovenia: Adverse winter weather forecast across the region through at least April 23

Adverse winter weather is forecast across central, southern, and western Austria and Slovenia through at least April 23. Heavy snowfall is expected in the region overnight, April 22-23, especially over elevated parts of the affected area. Strong winds are also forecast in southwestern Slovenia. Hazardous travel conditions are likely across the affected areas due to slippery roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow.

As of April 22, the respective meteorological services have issued the following warnings across the affected area:

• Orange snow warning: Across much of southern Carinthia and parts of southern Styria states in Austria and across Slovenia.

• Orange strong wind warnings: Southwestern regions in Slovenia.

• Yellow snow warnings: Across the rest of the affected area in Austria not under orange snow warnings.

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