Meteorologists Heighten Alert for Extreme Rainfall

Eastern regions of the Czech Republic are bracing for severe weather as meteorologists intensify warnings for Tuesday and Wednesday. The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (ČHMÚ) has expanded its alert system, with the Beskydy Mountains expected to receive the heaviest rainfall—approximately 180 millimeters. The Jeseníky region isn’t far behind, with predictions of around 130 millimeters.

The warnings now encompass the Zlín region and parts of the Moravian-Silesian, Olomouc, South Moravian, and Pardubice regions. On Tuesday morning, meteorologists not only extended the alert to additional areas of the Olomouc region but also elevated the warning level in certain territories. The easternmost regions remain under the highest alert, with rainfall potentially reaching 180 millimeters—persistent and heavy in nature.

According to ČHMÚ, “The greatest rainfall intensity will occur overnight into Wednesday and Wednesday morning, reaching up to 20 mm per hour”. Water levels in rivers draining the Beskydy, Javorníky, White Carpathians, and Jeseníky mountains are expected to rise from Tuesday evening. The areas around Český Těšín, Jablunkov, and Třinec face the greatest danger, operating under the highest warning level.

In response, water management authorities have been releasing water from reservoirs since Monday to increase retention capacity. The Odra River Basin management has 103 million cubic meters of retention space available, while the Morava River Basin has maximized its retention capabilities. Environment Minister Petr Hladík reassured the public that “the situation doesn’t appear as serious as last autumn’s floods, but we want to be prepared”.

Authorities are urging campsite operators and outdoor activity organizers to monitor developments closely. Interior Minister Vít Rakušan made a special appeal: “I ask all adventurers and adrenaline sports enthusiasts not to involve the integrated rescue system,” warning against reckless behavior on turbulent waterways that could needlessly endanger rescue workers.