Central Europe: Adverse winter weather forecast across the region through at least Dec. 22

Event

Heavy snowfall and strong winds are forecast across much of Czech Republic, Germany, Poland, and Slovakia through at least Dec. 22. As of early Dec. 19, 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): across parts of northern Germany.

• Orange snow and ice warnings: across most of Czech Republic, southeastern Germany, far southwestern Poland, and central Slovakia.

• Yellow snow and ice and low-temperature 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 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
Czech Hydrometeorological Institue
Deutscher Wetterdienst
Poland Institute of Meteorology and Water Management
Slovak Hydrometeorological Institute