A weather map from the German Weather Service displays the areas under a severe storm warning for extreme heavy rain. Regions from Trier through Saarland to southern Rhineland-Palatinate are highlighted, with expected rainfall amounts of up to 4 inches possible in some areas from May 17 to May 18, 2024. (DWD)
The German Weather Service has issued an official storm warning for extreme heavy rain from 6 p.m. Friday to 2 a.m. Saturday in the Kaiserslautern area.
Following observed rainfall amounts of 1.6 to 3.5 inches, an additional 0.4 to 0.8 inches of rain is expected, with up to 1.2 inches possible in some areas.
Potential dangers include severe flooding, high water levels, impassable or isolated areas and landslides, according to the service. Authorities recommend avoiding outdoor activities and travel and preparing for significant disruptions to all transportation routes, including potential closures.
Flood protection measures should be taken and lower floors of buildings should be evacuated if necessary, the DWD advised.
Large areas between Kaiserslautern and Pirmasens are under a severe flood warning, the German flood reporting portal shows.
A localized low-pressure system over western Germany is bringing very moist air, causing widespread heavy rain, especially west of the Rhine River.
Showers and thunderstorms may resume Saturday, with localized heavy rain up to 1.2 inches, wind gusts of around 34 mph and small hail, particularly in the north of the state.
May 17, 2024 17:18
