16 Dec 2022 | 10:19 AM UTC
Croatia: Adverse weather forecast across coastal regions through at least Dec. 17
Severe weather forecast across coastal regions of Croatia through Dec. 17. Disruptions to transport, business, and utilities possible.
Event
Thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and strong winds are forecast across parts of Croatia along the Adriatic coast through at least Dec. 17. Storms may be accompanied by lightning and possible hail. Rainfall totals of up to 7 cm (2.8 inches) are possible across the affected areas, as well as winds gusting up to 65 kph (40 mph).
As of Dec. 16, Croatia's State Hydrometeorological Institute (DHMZ) has issued the following warnings across the affected area:
Orange thunderstorm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Dubrovnik Region.
Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Gospic, Knin, Rijeka, and Split regions.
Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Across the affected area.
Yellow strong wind warnings: Dubrovnik, Rijeka, and Split regions, as well as most coastal waters.
Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
The storms could produce rounds of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity across the affected areas. 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, landslides, or strong winds 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. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles.
Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected areas. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts along the Adriatic Coast if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions. 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 updated emergency and weather information. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through affected areas. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
