Poland: Adverse weather forecast across southern regions through at least June 4

Severe weather is forecast across southern Poland through at least June 4. Heavy downpours, strong wind gusts, lightning, and hail may accompany storms.

The Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) has issued the following weather warnings June 4:

• Red heavy rain and thunderstorm warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Most of Lesser Poland and southern Silesian voivodeships.

• Orange heavy rain and thunderstorm warnings: Southwestern Lublin, Subcarpathian, and southern Swietokrzyskie voivodeships.

• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Across the rest of the affected area.

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

The storms could produce 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 and in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites 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. Disruptive weather may cause delays and cancellations at regional airports. 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 floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. Repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions if there is severe damage to infrastructure.