10 Jan 2023 | 10:43 AM UTC
Kosovo, Serbia: Adverse weather forecast across Kosovo and central and southern Serbia through at least Jan. 11
Heavy rainfall and snowfall forecast across Kosovo and parts of Serbia through at least Jan. 11. Disruptions possible.
Event
Heavy rainfall and snowfall are forecast across Kosovo and central and southern Serbia through at least Jan. 11. Rainfall is forecast across central Serbia Jan. 10 and snowfall accumulations of more than 15 cm (6 inches) are possible in elevated areas of southern Serbia and Kosovo. Snowfall is expected across lower elevations of central and southern Serbia and Kosovo Jan. 11.
As of Jan. 10, the Republic Hydrometeorological Service of Serbia has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area:
Orange (the middle level on a three-tier scale) snowfall warnings: Across Kosovo and southern Serbia Jan. 10.
Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Across central Serbia Jan. 10.
Yellow snowfall warnings: Across Kosovo and central and southern Serbia Jan. 11.
Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the weather alerts over the coming hours and days.
Hazardous Conditions
Where precipitation falls as rain, flash and areal flooding is possible. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water, as well as in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.
Precipitation could fall as snow in higher elevations over the coming days. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in mountainous areas. Rain-induced landslides cannot be discounted in areas of elevated terrain; there is also the possibility of avalanches in mountainous areas where the snowpack has become unstable due to heavy snowfall. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.
Transport
Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Heavy snow will likely make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations. Mountain passes and tunnels could be closed as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall.
The disruptive weather will likely cause some delays and cancellations at airports in the region. Flooding and/or snow could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.
Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or avalanches, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business arrangements before traveling in the affected area. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast; plan for possible supply chain disruptions throughout the affected areas. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides, as well as mountainous regions where avalanches pose a threat. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
