Romania: Adverse weather forecast across northern and central regions June 10

Severe weather is forecast across northern and central Romania June 10. The Romanian National Meteorological Administration has issued orange warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale)for unstable weather across much of the northern half of the country through late June 10 and yellow warnings for unstable weather across the rest of the affected area. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected across the region. Strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail may accompany storms. Rainfall amounts of 1.5-4 cm (0.6-1.6 inches) in the space of a few hours are expected across the affected area, with isolated higher amounts. Winds gusting up to 90 kph (56 mph) are possible in places. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas, and strong winds may cause property damage and power outages. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change 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 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 severe weather impacts utility networks.

The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout affected regions. 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 will also likely trigger flight delays and cancelations at airports across the affected region. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in flood-hit areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.