Central Europe: Adverse weather forecast across parts of the region through at least early Aug. 1

Thunderstorms are forecast across parts of western Austria, southern Germany, Liechtenstein, and central and northern Switzerland through at least early Aug. 1. Heavy rainfall, strong winds, lightning, and possible hail may accompany storms. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes. Strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.

As of July 31, Austria's Central Institution for Meteorology and Geodynamics (ZAMG) has issued yellow thunderstorm warnings (the lowest level on a three-tier scale) across Voralberg, most of Tyrol, and parts of western Carinthia and far southwestern Salzburg states.

The German Weather Service (DWD) has issued a red advance warning of severe thunderstorms (the second highest level on a four-tier scale) across parts of southern, south-central, and southeastern Baden-Wurttemberg and southwestern Bavaria states. for the afternoon and evening July 31.

MeteoSwiss has issued an orange warning (the middle level on a three-tier scale) for a considerable danger of thunderstorms across northern and much of central and western Switzerland, as well as across Liechtenstein.

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