On August 30th, the Czech Republic was subjected to a barrage of heavy rain and thunderstorms, resulting in certain regions receiving as much as 20 millimeters of rainfall within a single hour. In response to these adverse weather conditions, the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (ČHMÚ) issued a series of warnings pertaining to both thunderstorms and potential floods, with these alerts remaining active until Tuesday night.

Meteorologists have identified the source of these storms and rain as originating from Austria and Bavaria. These disturbances are described as having a “convective character (even with occasional lightning activity).” The ČHMÚ has specifically highlighted the threat of flash floods due to the trajectory of the storms, coupled with the possibility of multiple storm cells passing over the same geographical areas. In certain regions, the potential for hail is also acknowledged.

As part of their warning efforts, the ČHMÚ has issued multiple alerts for Monday afternoon and Tuesday, with the most severe advisories directed towards the Czech Republic. In certain areas, there is a forecasted potential for receiving up to 40 millimeters of rain within a span of six hours, and up to 60 millimeters of rainfall within a 24-hour period. For the Moravia and Silesia regions, meteorologists have indicated a risk of powerful storms bringing about short-term intense precipitation, potentially reaching up to 50 millimeters.

Meteorologists have also raised concerns regarding the potential for heavy rain to lead to elevated water levels in rivers and streams. The areas most at risk for such events include portions of the Plzeň and South Bohemian regions.

Beyond the borders of the Czech Republic, neighboring Germany has been grappling with equally unpredictable weather. Heavy rainfall and rising water levels in rivers and streams have prompted warnings from the German Meteorological Service, particularly impacting the southern Bavaria region. In cities like Rosenheim, flooding has already inundated streets and bicycle paths, with water levels continuing to rise.

These recent storms have taken a toll on local agriculture, resulting in significant damage to crops amounting to tens of millions of Czech crowns. Additionally, authorities have cautioned against hiking in the Beskids due to the heightened risk of falling trees and branches caused by these weather conditions.

Article by Prague Forum