Vanda SvobodovaIn a sudden turn of events, the Czech Republic faces a severe weather challenge as icy conditions threaten the safety of pedestrians and drivers, particularly in Moravia, Silesia, and the eastern and northern parts of Bohemia. The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute has issued its most stern warning for the area straddling the Czech-Moravian border, especially the eastern part of the Pardubice region, where the risk level has been escalated to extreme.
This ice formation, known as ‘ledovka’ in Czech, is not just a mere winter occurrence but a precursor to significant warming. Midweek forecasts predict temperatures soaring above ten degrees Celsius, marking a stark contrast to the current icy grip. However, this warming phase will be gradual, with the freezing conditions expected to relent.
The ice warning comes into effect progressively from the west, coinciding with incoming precipitation. The formation of ‘ledovka’, a result of rain freezing upon contact with the cold ground, is expected to impact only parts of the country where cooler daytime temperatures persist. From ten in the morning, the warning applies to the northeastern edge of the Ústí nad Labem region (Děčín and Rumburk areas), the northern part of the Central Bohemian region (Mladá Boleslav area), as well as the Liberec and Hradec Králové regions, extending to the western part of the Pardubice region. By one in the afternoon, the warning extends to the remainder of the Pardubice region, where the danger is most acute.
The most severe warning concerns the area between Žamberk, Svitavy, Moravská Třebová, and Králíky. From one o’clock, people in the Vysočina Region, the eastern South Bohemian region (Jindřichův Hradec and Dačice areas), and the western parts of the South Moravian and Olomouc regions should also prepare for icy conditions. By four in the afternoon, the warning will also cover the rest of the South Moravian and Olomouc regions, the southwest of the Zlín region, and the western Moravian-Silesian region. The warning is expected to be lifted gradually between six in the evening and one at night.
The dangers of ‘ledovka’ are manifold. It can cover entire landscapes, making it unavoidable and posing risks of pedestrian accidents and vehicular crashes. The weight of the ice can also cause trees and power lines to break. However, this phenomenon is also a transitional one, indicating imminent warming. It occurs because the upper atmosphere is already warm enough for rain instead of snow, and this warmth will soon be felt at lower levels, leading to the melting of the ice layer.
In addition to ice, meteorologists are also warning of strong winds. From six in the morning to six in the evening, winds could reach speeds of up to 70 kilometers per hour in the Moravian-Silesian region, as well as in the Jeseník area of the Olomouc region and the Frýdlant area in the Liberec region. This raises the possibility of falling trees or branches and flying debris, potentially causing minor damage to buildings.
The ice and wind warning on January 22nd signals the end of the freezing period. By Monday, most of Bohemia is expected to experience temperatures between 3 to 7 degrees Celsius, although in areas under the ice warning, temperatures might hover between minus 1 and plus 3 degrees. By Tuesday, thermometers across the republic are predicted to register between 3 to 7 degrees, with a sharp rise to a maximum of 8 to 12 degrees Celsius by Wednesday. Strong winds are expected to continue in the following days, although no specific warning has been issued yet.
From Thursday, temperatures should return to around 3 to 8 degrees, with a slight cooling expected over the weekend. However, a return to freezing conditions seems unlikely for the time being. Snowfall is possible in higher elevations over the weekend.
This sudden shift in weather patterns, from extreme ice to a significant warming trend, highlights the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of climate in the region. It serves as a reminder of the importance of staying informed and prepared for rapid changes in weather conditions.
