Hungary: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least Oct. 4 /update 1

Severe weather is forecast across much of Hungary through at least Oct. 4. Thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are expected; strong wind gusts, lightning, and hail may accompany storms.

The Hungarian Meteorological Service has issued the following weather warnings across the country Oct. 3-4:

Oct. 3

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings (the lowest level on a three-tier scale): Baranya, Bacs-Kiskun, Csongrad-Csanad, Jasz-Nagykun-Szolnok, Somogy, Tolna, and Zala counties.

Oct. 4

• Orange heavy rainfall warnings: Baranya, Bacs-Kiskun, and Tolna counties.

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Across the rest of Hungary.

• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Bekes and Csongrad-Csanad counties.

Officials will likely update and 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 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 rain has saturated the soil.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Where significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks, disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible.

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. The disruptive weather may cause delays and cancellations at airports in the affected regions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.

Localized business disruptions are possible in areas impacted by severe weather; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.