Latvia: Adverse weather forecast across Latvia through at least Feb. 27 /update 2

Event

Melting snow and rainfall has caused river levels to rise across much of Latvia, with the situation expected to continue through at least Feb. 27. Flooding has been reported in many parts of the country, and associated disruptions are ongoing. Strong winds are also forecast on the western coast of Kurzeme Region.

Flooding has occurred in many areas across Latvia in recent days. Severe flooding is ongoing in Kekava Municipality in Zemgale Region, where the River Misa has burst its banks. Flooding has also inundated roads and bridges in Jelgava in Zmegale Region. Low-lying areas of Jekabpils municipality have been flooded, and some roads have been made impassable by floodwaters. Roads have also been flooded in Sigulda and Valmiera municipalities in Vidzeme Region.

As of Feb. 24, the Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Agency (LEGMC) has issued the following warnings across the country:

• Red water level warning (the highest level on a four-tier scale): Kekava Municipality in Zemgale Region.

• Orange water level warnings: in areas around the Uzava River in western Kurzeme Region.

• Yellow water level warnings: across all areas of Latvia, not under red or orange warnings.

• Yellow strong winds warning: along the western coast of Kurzeme Region.

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

Hazardous Conditions

Rising water levels 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 located 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 rainfall has saturated the soil.

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

Transport
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. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see severe flooding and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

MeteoAlarm
Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Agency (Latvian)