Poland: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least June 2

Severe weather is forecast across much of Poland through at least June 2. Severe weather warnings for thunderstorms are in place across western Poland May 28 and further showers and storms are expected across the country over the coming days. Heavy downpours, strong wind gusts, lightning, and hail may accompany storms. Flooding is possible in areas where sustained heavy rainfall occurs and strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.

The Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) has issued the following weather warnings May 28:

• Orange thunderstorm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Across much of Greater Poland and parts of western Kuyavian-Pomeranian, central and eastern Lower Silesian, far southeastern Lubusz, central and western Opole, western Pomeranian, and eastern West Pomeranian provinces.

• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Across Silesian, much of Lubusz, and parts of far eastern Greater Poland, west-central Kuyavian-Pomeranian, eastern and southeastern Lesser Poland, western Lower Silesian, western Lodz, eastern Opole. and central and western West Pomeranian provinces.

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

The storms could produce rounds of heavy precipitation and strong winds across affected areas. Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flash and areal flooding in affected areas. 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.

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. The disruptive weather will likely cause some 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 blockages.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or strong winds, 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.