Are we in danger of another flood?

The Governmental Centre for Security (RCB) on 4 July issued a communiqué regarding possible intense rainfall and the risk of flooding in Poland. The communication refers to the current week, i.e. from 7 July to 13 July. Meteorological forecasts are continuously monitored and updated.

The predicted violent meteorological phenomena in the second week of July may have serious consequences. The predicted precipitation will cause rapid increases in water levels, especially in the catchments of mountainous and upland areas and in highly urbanised areas. In such places, it is possible that warning or even alarm levels may be exceeded.

RCB actions and warnings

Since 4 July, the RCB has been issuing messages to the public space on an ongoing basis regarding the possibility of heavy rainfall and the risk of flooding. The situation is so dynamic that two more communications have since been issued. The Genoese low, which is characterised by a tendency to carry heavy rainfall, is expected to see heavy rain over south-eastern Poland from Tuesday to Wednesday.

On 7 July, a meeting was held between representatives of the Ministry of Interior and Administration, the RCB and the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW). It was aimed at discussing the current meteorological situation, assessing risks and preparing to deal with forecasted violent phenomena and possible flooding.

Forecast weather conditions

The Institute of Meteorology and Water Management forecasts thunderstorms, which will be accompanied in places by very heavy rainfall - that is, from 35 mm to 50 mm, and wind gusts of up to 100 km/h/. Local hail showers of 2 cm to 3 cm are also possible. The forecast precipitation will result in water surges in upland and mountain floodplains, as well as in urbanised areas. The result will be the exceeding of warning and alarm levels.      

Particularly vulnerable areas

Residents of the districts of Kłodzko, Dzierżoniów and Ząbkowice (in the Lower Silesian Voivodship) received alerts on 7 July regarding forecasts of heavy rainfall and possible flooding on the night of 8 July to 9 July.

Recommendations for residents

The RCB urges people to exercise caution and avoid approaching overflowing rivers. If there is a risk of flooding it is advised to:

• Regularly following emergency announcements and behavioural guidance broadcast on local radio or television.
• Relocation of valuables to upper floors of buildings.
• Keeping your mobile phone fully charged.
• Moving vehicles from the affected property to safe locations.
• Securing buildings by preparing sandbags and other protective measures.