Germany: Adverse weather forecast across southwestern, west-central, and western regions through early May 3

Thunderstorms are forecast to break out across parts of southwestern, west-central, and western Germany through early May 3. Bands of strong storms are expected across much of Hesse and parts of central, eastern, and northern Baden-Wurttemberg, northwestern and western Bavaria, central and southern North Rhine-Westphalia, northern Rhineland-Palatinate, and far southwestern Thuringia states. The German Weather Service (DWD) has issued an advanced notice of severe thunderstorms across the affected area. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming hours and days. Heavy rainfall, strong winds, lightning, and possible hail may accompany storms. Rainfall totals of 4-6 cm (1.6-2.4 inches) and winds gusting up to 80 kph (50 mph) are possible across the affected area. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes. Strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.

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 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 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 airports in the region. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible 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.