Czechia braces for heavy storms and cooler temperatures over the weekend

The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (ČHMÚ) has forecast for this weekend the arrival of intense and potentially damaging storms throughout Czechia. Meteorologists predict heavy rainfall, large hailstones, and powerful gusts of wind. These adverse weather conditions raise concerns about possible river flooding, particularly in the regions of southern and eastern Bohemia, Vysočina, northwestern Moravia, and western Silesia.

A high-level weather alert was issued on Friday afternoon for the whole country. Meteorologists anticipate the possibility of severe thunderstorms through Saturday night. Although a period of respite is predicted for Saturday morning, the storms are forecasted to make a return in the afternoon. The alert is valid until Sunday at 6 a.m. The Karlovy Vary, Ústí nad Labem, and Liberec regions will be the least affected by the incoming storms.

In the capital, strong rain is expected in the early hours of Saturday, continuing (with intervals) through to the morning. The day will be dry with a maximum temperature of around 28 degrees Celsius, although strong rain is expected throughout the night, continuing onto Sunday morning. As for daytime Sunday, rain is anticipated from roughly 11 a.m. until the end of the day. It will be much cooler, with maximum temperatures of 23 degrees Celsius. 

The impending storms bring the potential for approximately 40 millimeters of rainfall during Friday and Saturday nights. Beyond rain, the threat of hail measuring over 3 centimeters in diameter also looms. In addition, wind speeds will escalate significantly, with gusts of up to 90 kilometers per hour.

The combination of heavy rainfall poses risks of flooding in basements and underpasses. Furthermore, the vigor of the wind could lead to the snapping of trees and branches, raising concerns about possible power outages. Experts are also warning of the potential for lightning-related injuries.

Consequently, ČHMÚ has issued a flood warning, albeit with expectations that river levels should remain below the first level (the least-serious phase) of flood activity. This warning will take effect from 6 p.m. on Saturday, continuing through to Sunday. The alert pertains to several areas, including the South Bohemian Region, most of Vysočina, the Pardubice Region, parts of the Hradec Králové and Olomouc Regions, and partially the Pilsen and South Moravian Regions. The capital is not expected to see any flooding activity.

Meanwhile, South Moravia is still under a heat warning until Friday evening, cautioning that maximum temperatures may exceed 34 degrees Celsius. Additionally, the warning for fire risk covering approximately two-thirds of western Bohemia remains in effect until midnight.