Heavy storms with hail and flooding potential pose a threat to southern Germany, officials have issued a warning.
Heavy Thunderstorms to Continue in Southern and Southeastern Germany
Severe thunderstorms are set to persist in southern and southeastern Germany until early next week, with heavy rainfall, hail, and strong winds posing a significant threat to the region. The German Weather Service (DWD) has issued severe thunderstorm warnings for the affected areas.
The focus of these warnings is on Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria, particularly regions south of the Danube River, the Black Forest, and the Bavarian Forest. Areas near the Alps and extending eastwards towards Austria are also at risk.
The thunderstorms are expected to bring heavy rainfall, leading to local flooding and high water events. Severe thunderstorms with hail and strong wind gusts, reaching storm force in some cases, may cause disruption to infrastructure, transport, and agriculture. Hail up to 2 cm in diameter is possible, and localized amounts of 40 liters or more of rainfall are expected.
The current thunderstorm warnings are in effect until late Sunday night, although an extension is considered unlikely. Buildings, cars, and agricultural crops in the affected areas may sustain damage from hail. The thunderstorms will retreat to southeastern Bavaria later on Saturday evening and into Sunday night, but in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, strong thunderstorms are expected to persist into the night.
The rainfall rate is particularly high, potentially causing flooding. Lightning damage is also a potential impact of these thunderstorms. Gusts up to 70 km/h are expected, and short, intense bursts of rainfall totalling 20 to 30 liters per square meter are possible.
This weather pattern is related to a nearly stationary disturbance over southern Germany amid a "summer monsoon" setup driven by high pressure over the Mediterranean and Scandinavia combined with cooler, wetter systems over Germany. The situation resembles a climate pattern bringing repeated bouts of strong storms with slow movement, increasing the risk of accumulative flood impacts.
As the thunderstorms move very slowly, it is important for residents in the affected areas to stay informed and prepared. Monitor local weather reports and heed any warnings or advisories issued by the DWD. Take precautions to protect your property from potential damage, and be prepared to take shelter if necessary.
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Keeping a close watch on weather-forecasting is crucial due to the persisting heavy thunderstorms in southern and southeastern Germany. The German Weather Service (DWD) has issued severe thunderstorm warnings for areas like Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, and the Alps, warning of hail, strong winds, and heavy rainfall that may lead to flooding and infrastructure disruption.
