29 Jun 2022 | 08:49 AM UTC
Czech Republic: Adverse weather forecast across the country through at least July 2
Severe weather conditions forecast across the Czech Republic through at least July 2. Transport, business, and utility disruptions possible.
Event
Severe weather conditions are forecast across the Czech Republic through at least July 2. Strong thunderstorms accompanied by heavy rainfall, stormy winds, and possible hail are expected across the western half of the country through at least June 30, with further storms expected across the country July 1-2. Storms could be accompanied by short-term downpours totaling 5 cm (2 inches) of rainfall and winds gusting up to 90 kph (56 mph). In the east, hot and dry conditions will persist June 29-July 1, increasing the risk of forest fires and posing a health threat for vulnerable groups due to the increased possibility of heat stroke or heat exhaustion.
As of early June 29, the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (CHMI) has issued the following weather warnings across the country:
Orange thunderstorm warnings (middle level on a three-tier scale): Across Central Bohemian, Liberec, Prague, South Bohemian, and Usti nad Labem regions, as well as parts of southeastern Plzen and western Vysocina regions.
Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Across the rest of central and western Czech Republic.
Yellow heatwave warnings: Across Moravian-Silesian, Olomouc, South Moravian, and Zlin regions.
Yellow forest fire danger warnings: Across Moravian-Silesian, Olomouc, South Moravian, and Zlin regions, as well as parts of eastern Padubice and eastern Vysocina regions.
The CHMI has also issued a nationwide outlook warning for heavy thunderstorms across the country June 30-July 2. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the relevant weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
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 located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where severe weather impacts utility networks.
Transport
The severe weather could contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. 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.
Severe weather could trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the affected region. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations may occur in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in flood-hit areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of 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.
