Czech Republic: Adverse winter weather forecast across northern and eastern regions through at least Jan. 12

Adverse winter weather conditions are forecast across northern and eastern parts of the Czech Republic through at least Jan. 12. Heavy snowfall and strong winds are expected across the affected areas, with snowfall accumulations of up to 50 cm (20 inches) possible in mountainous parts of the region. Hazardous travel conditions are likely due to reduced visibility caused by blowing snow. Sporadic power outages are possible throughout the affected area.

The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (CHMI) has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area Jan. 10-12:

• Orange snowdrift warnings (the middle on a three-tier scale): Parts of northern and southeastern Hradec Kralove, central, eastern, and northern Liberec, northwestern and southeastern Moravian-Silesian, northern Olomouc, and northeastern Pardubice regions.

• Yellow heavy snowfall warnings: Parts of central and northern Liberec Region.

• Yellow snowdrift warnings: Parts of northwestern Liberec and northeastern Usti nad Labem regions.

Officials will likely update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions in the region over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports.