Austria: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least Sept. 17

Severe weather is forecast across much of Austria through at least Sept. 17. Heavy rainfall is expected across much of the country over the coming days, with snowfall possible in areas of higher elevation. Heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes. As of Sept. 11, the Austrian Central Institution for Meteorology and Geodynamics (ZAMG) has issued orange heavy rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale) across Lower Austria, Upper Austria, and Vienna, much of Salzburg, and parts of northern Burgenland, northern Styria, and northeastern Tyrol states. Yellow heavy rainfall warnings are in place across much of the rest of the country, with the exception of far southeastern and far western regions. Yellow snowfall warnings are in place across parts of central Austria. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as conditions change 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 the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

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, landslides, or strong winds 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. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles.

Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected areas. 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.