Torrential downpours predicted for the central and western regions of Latvia over the upcoming 48 hours
Heavy Rain and Flood Risks in Zemgale and Kurzeme, Latvia
Residents and travelers in the regions of Zemgale and Kurzeme, Latvia, should brace for heavy rains and the potential risk of flooding from Wednesday to Thursday.
According to the Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre (LVĢMC), persistent and sometimes intense downpours are expected over the two-day period, with minor interruptions. The flood risk areas are primarily in Zemgale and Kurzeme, with heavy rain starting on Wednesday morning in Zemgale and around noon in Kurzeme.
The floodplains and low-lying areas in these regions may experience flooding, and significant rises in river water levels are expected due to the rainfall. Locally, up to 80-100 millimetres of rain may fall, surpassing the climatic norm for the whole month in the region, which is around 60-80 millimetres.
The LVĢMC advises the public to monitor their weather warnings diligently because the weather can rapidly change and become dangerous. Precautions recommended for these flood risk areas include staying updated with official weather forecasts and warnings on the LVĢMC warning portal, preparing for possible impacts on outdoor activities, and taking typical flood safety measures such as securing property, avoiding travel through flooded roads, and ensuring emergency supplies are accessible.
However, no detailed project or infrastructure-related flood mitigation information specific to Zemgale and Kurzeme for this forecast period was found in the available results. Localised flooding and damage to road infrastructure – washouts – are also possible.
Despite the heavy rain, the weather will improve over the weekend in Latvia, with mostly sunny conditions. The temperature will rise to 27 degrees in the east of Latvia on Sunday, while over the weekend, air temperatures will be in the 20-25 degree range. However, short rains and thunderstorms will still occur daily in some parts of Latvia over the weekend.
Residents and travelers are advised to stay informed and follow official meteorological updates and flood safety guidance closely.
The flood risk areas are primarily in Zemgale and Kurzeme, and residents should be prepared for heavy rain starting on Wednesday morning in Zemgale and around noon in Kurzeme. Infrastructure in these regions may experience damage due to the heavy rain and potential flooding, especially the floodplains and low-lying areas.
