Parts of central Europe are currently on high alert as they prepare for heavy rain and potential flooding over the weekend. Austrian authorities are closely monitoring water levels of the Salzach River, anticipating flooding issues along the border with Germany. In the Czech Republic, there are concerns about a once-in-a-hundred-year flood, prompting city workers in Prague to erect flood defenses in the historic center.
Local meteorologists are warning that this could be the most severe flooding in decades, with continuous rainfall over the past few days totaling up to 189 millimeters in some areas. More rain is expected, with higher elevations likely to experience significant snowfall, potentially reaching up to two meters in some mountainous regions of the Alps.
The slow-moving storm system is exacerbating the situation, with forecasts indicating additional rainfall exceeding 200 millimeters in certain areas. High alerts have been issued for regions stretching from Prague to Vienna, with the threat of strong winds accompanying the low-pressure system's movement.
Meanwhile, a storm named Babinka is gaining strength and is expected to impact Shanghai in the coming days. While not projected to reach the intensity of a category three or four Atlantic hurricane, Babinka is likely to develop into a typhoon, posing risks of heavy rainfall and wind speeds of up to 100 kilometers per hour. The storm's potential impact on Shanghai, a densely populated city, could result in power outages, flooding, and damage to infrastructure.
Residents in the affected areas are advised to stay informed about the evolving weather conditions and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety in light of the impending severe weather events.
