02 Sep 2022 | 11:20 AM UTC
Romania: Adverse weather forecast across the country through at least Sept. 3 /update 2
Thunderstorms and heavy rainfall forecast across much of Romania through at least Sept. 3. Possible flooding and associated disruptions.
Event
Thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are forecast across Romania through at least Sept. 3. Storms could be accompanied by strong wind gusts, hail, and lightning. Rainfall totals of 7-10 cm (2.8-3.9 inches) are possible in some south-central parts of the country including Valcea County and elevated areas of Arges and Gorj counties. Rainfall totals of 2.5-6 cm (1-2.4 inches) are possible across the rest of the country, with isolated amounts of 7-8 (2.8-3.1 inches) possible in some southwestern parts of Romania.
As of Sept. 2, the Romanian National Meteorological Administration has issued the following weather warnings across the country:
Red heavy rainfall warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Valcea County and parts of northern Arges and northern Gorj counties.
Orange heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings: Alba, southern and central Arges, Bistrita-Nasaud, Brasov, northwestern Buzau, Cluj, Constanta, Covasna, Dambovita, Dolj, Giurgiu, Gorj, Harghita, Hunedoara, Maramures, Mehedinti, Mures, Olt, northern Prahova, Sibiu, and Teleorman counties.
Yellow heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings: Across the rest of the country.
Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories, as weather conditions change 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. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
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.
Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in affected regions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall 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.
