Europe: Adverse winter weather forecast across parts of Hungary, Montenegro, and Serbia through at least Dec. 28

Event

Heavy snowfall and heavy rainfall are forecast across parts of Hungary, Montenegro, and Serbia through at least Dec. 28. As of Dec. 27, authorities have issued the following watches and warnings across the affected area:

• Red snow and ice warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Northern Great Plain and Southern Great Plain regions in Hungary.

• Orange snow, ice, and heavy rain warnings (the second-highest level on a three-tier scale): Central Hungary, northern and eastern Serbia, and Montenegro.

• Yellow snow, ice, and strong wind warnings: The rest of 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 storm could produce rounds of heavy precipitation (including rain and snow), strong winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity. Where precipitation falls as rain, flash, and areal flooding is possible. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water and in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.

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.

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. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

MeteoAlarm
Hungarian Meteorological Service (Hungarian)
Hydrometeorological Institute of Montenegro (Montenegrin)
Republic Hydrometeorological Service of Serbia (Serbian)