Latvia: Adverse weather forecast across eastern and western regions through at least early Aug. 22

Thunderstorms are forecast across eastern and western Latvia through at least early Aug. 22. Storms may be accompanied by heavy downpours, strong winds, lightning, and hail. As of Aug. 21, the Latvian Environment, Geology, and Meteorology Centre (LEGMC) has issued orange thunderstorm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale) across eastern regions and yellow thunderstorm warnings across western regions. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the weather alerts over the coming hours. Heavy downpours associated with the storms could trigger flooding in low-lying areas, and strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.

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 areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

The severe weather could contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Flooding downpours could inundate some low-lying roads in areas with poor drainage. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Hazardous weather conditions might cause flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region.