Slovenia: Adverse weather forecast nationwide through at least May 17

Severe weather is forecast across Slovenia through at least May 17. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected across the country over the coming days, with the heaviest rainfall likely in western parts of Slovenia. Strong winds, lightning, and hail may accompany storms. Heavy downpours may lead to flooding in low-lying areas, and strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.

The Slovenian Environment Agency (ARSO) has issued the following weather warnings May 16-17:

• Orange heavy rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Southwestern and northwestern regions.

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Central regions.

• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Across the country.

• Yellow strong wind warnings: Southwestern regions.

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

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 or a lack of 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 cannot be ruled out 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 days. The adverse weather conditions could cause power outages throughout impacted areas.

The severe weather could contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Strong winds might pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. 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 track inundation.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after weather 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.