Central Europe is gearing up for extreme rainfall in the coming days, with German meteorologists issuing the highest warning level. The likelihood of flooding along the Elbe and Danube rivers is a significant concern. According to the Focus weekly website, the anticipated rainfall could be as much as 200 litres per square meter, with some forecast models suggesting up to 300 litres per square meter.
A deep pressure low is forming in the Alps. However, it cannot move due to a solid high-pressure system developing to the north over the British Isles and Russia, stated meteorologist Dagmar Honsová. The focus of this low pressure is currently unclear.
There are various forecast models, each predicting a different area. One even suggests that the centre could be in western Bohemia, which would be problematic as it would result in flooding. This area has soil that is highly saturated with water, added Honsová. Flood predictions are continually being refined.
The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (CHMI) has hinted that a warning might be issued for the west of the country from Friday to Sunday noon due to heavy and persistent rainfall. According to meteorologists, if the forecasts are fulfilled, there could be between 50 and 70 millimetres and even over 90 millimetres of rainfall in 48 hours.
Focus writes that the extreme rainfall is most likely to hit Bavaria and Saxony. Thuringia and Hesse could also be affected. Currently, the Czech Republic’s models are predicting rainfall in western and southern Bohemia and the Ore Mountains.
The rainfall will be so heavy that meteorologists do not rule out flooding on the Danube or Elbe rivers, possibly on Sunday or Monday. Rainfall is predicted to be between 100 and 200 litres per square meter, and in the Alps, it could be as much as 300 litres.
Meteorologists are warning authorities and calling for vigilance. It is not yet possible to determine the direction the weather will take. However, the area is expecting persistent heavy rainfall, and experts are drawing parallels with the weather resulting in the Ahr Valley flood disaster in July 2021.