Europe: Heavy snow forecast across parts of eastern and central Europe through at least Feb. 9

Event

A storm system will continue to bring heavy snowfall to portions of eastern and central Europe through at least Feb. 9. The affected areas include Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, northern Germany, far northern Czech Republic, Poland, southwestern Belarus, far eastern Slovakia, and western Ukraine. As of Feb. 8, the European Meteorological Service has issued red level warnings, the most severe on a four-tiered scale - for heavy snowfall in far southeastern Poland. Orange-level warnings - the second-highest on the four-tiered scale - for heavy snowfall and strong winds are in effect for southeastern Poland, northern Germany, far northeastern Slovakia, and the northern Netherlands. Additionally, yellow-level warnings for heavy snowfall and strong winds are in effect across the affected area. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts could lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Sporadic power outages are possible throughout the affected area.

Transport
The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions across portions of eastern and central Europe 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.

Advice

Monitor local media for updated weather information. Verify road conditions before driving in areas where heavy snowfall is forecast. Allow extra time to reach destinations in these areas and carry an emergency kit and warm clothes if driving is necessary, especially on secondary or rural routes that could become impassable. Plan accordingly for delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area through at least Feb. 9. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

MeteoAlarm
Department of Hydrometeorology (Belarus)
Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Center