Germany: Adverse weather forecast across eastern and southeastern regions through at least Sept. 17

Severe weather is forecast across parts of eastern and southeastern Germany through at least Sept. 17. Heavy rainfall has been ongoing across the region in recent days, causing widespread disruptions across parts of central Europe. River levels have reached dangerous areas across parts of Germany, particularly in Saxony State. Further persistent rain is expected Sept. 16-17 over parts of southern and southeastern Bavaria, far southern Brandenburg, and much of Saxony states. Snowfall is also expected in Alpine areas of southern Bavaria.

As of Sept. 16, the German Weather Service (DWD) has issued red rainfall warnings (the second highest and second lowest levels on a four-tier scale) across southern and southeastern Bavaria State and orange heavy rainfall warnings across the rest of the affected area. Orange and yellow heavy snowfall warnings have been issued across southern mountainous parts of southern Bavaria. Orange strong wind warnings are also in place for parts of eastern Bavaria and southern Saxony states. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather 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 or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.

Precipitation could fall as snow in the higher elevations over the coming days. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in mountainous areas. Rain-induced landslides are possible in areas of elevated terrain; there is also the possibility of avalanches in mountainous areas where the snowpack has become unstable due to heavy snowfall. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant winds, 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. Heavy snow could make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations. Mountain passes and tunnels could be closed as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall.

Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.