In a startling announcement, Czech meteorologists have issued a severe weather warning, predicting extreme rainfall that could lead to significant flooding across the country. The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (ČHMÚ) forecasts that from Thursday to Sunday, some areas could see rainfall totals ranging from 150 to 250 millimeters, with eastern regions potentially receiving over 300 millimeters.
The most intense precipitation is expected to occur in the northern, southern, and eastern parts of the Czech Republic. Particularly alarming warnings have been issued for parts of the Pardubice, Olomouc, and Moravian-Silesian regions, where rainfall could exceed 300 millimeters. The rest of Moravia and Silesia, along with the northern mountain areas, are also under high alert, with expected rainfall between 150 and 250 millimeters.
This deluge poses a serious flood risk. Meteorologists anticipate significant rises in water levels starting Friday evening, with many areas potentially reaching the highest flood activity level (level 3) by Saturday and Sunday. In locations receiving more than 120 millimeters of rain within 24 hours, water levels could dramatically surpass this third level.
Flood warnings have been issued for Moravia, Silesia, Vysočina, the Pardubice region, and parts of the South Bohemian, Hradec Králové, Central Bohemian, and Liberec regions. The rest of Bohemia, excluding the westernmost areas, is under flood alert or vigilance, indicating potential level 1 or 2 flood activity.
As the situation continues to evolve, meteorologists advise the public to stay informed and monitor weather updates closely. Adding to the challenging conditions, strong winds are expected from Friday to Sunday, further complicating the weather scenario.