Published30. September 2024, 16:17
Weather in SwitzerlandIntense, continuous rain: the federal government raises the warning level
Sunny hours on Monday will give way to partly intense, continuous rain from Tuesday morning to Wednesday. The danger level is 3 out of 5 in two regions.
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The federal government warns of intense, continuous rain starting Tuesday morning.
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The Lower Valais and parts of the Bernese Oberland will be particularly affected.
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Rising water levels and landslides are possible.
Switzerland is currently situated on the southern edge of a storm centered over England, allowing for dry air and several hours of sunshine today. However, wet weather is expected to return tomorrow, with meteorologists predicting intense, continuous rain in some areas.
The federal government has raised the danger level to the third highest (3 out of 5) for the Lower Valais (50-90 millimeters) and the western Bernese Oberland (40-70 millimeters). “Only in the far east will it remain dry for a longer period in the morning,” forecast the meteorologists at MeteoNews.
What this means for you
The warning in both regions is in effect from 11 a.m. on Tuesday until 11 a.m. on Wednesday. The heaviest rainfall is expected on Tuesday from 6 p.m. to 3 a.m. on Wednesday.
Given the danger level, several consequences are expected:
Recommended actions
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Avoid areas near rivers and lakes, as well as steep slopes.
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Stay away from streams in mountainous regions due to the possibility of debris flows. “These can occur suddenly and without warning, posing significant risks,” states the federal government.
Forecast for the upcoming week
Signs of improvement are expected on Wednesday morning. However, the weather will remain variable with clouds, sunny spells, and occasional rain. MeteoNews predicts temperatures around 15 degrees. Thursday will be similar, featuring partly dense clouds and a few showers. “The amounts and intensities will no longer be significant,” notes the MeteoNews blog.
On Friday, it will be necessary to dress a bit warmer due to the bise wind, which will make cooler temperatures feel even chillier.
Warmer conditions are anticipated as the weekend approaches, with the air becoming drier, especially in mountainous areas. The zero-degree limit will rise to over 3000 meters in western Switzerland. Similar conditions are expected on Sunday, with temperatures peaking in the south at up to 19 degrees.
Weather Switzerland: Intense, Continuous Rain Warning from Federal Government
Published 30. September 2024, 16:17
Sunny hours on Monday will be followed by intense, continuous rain from Tuesday morning to Wednesday. The danger level is at 3 out of 5 in two regions.
-
The federal government warns of intense, continuous rain starting Tuesday morning.
-
Lower Valais and parts of the Bernese Oberland are particularly affected.
-
Rising water levels and landslides are possible.
Current Weather Conditions in Switzerland
Switzerland is currently positioned on the southern edge of a storm centered over England. The country enjoyed some dry air today, bringing a few hours of sunshine, but wet weather is set to return. Meteorologists predict an onslaught of intense, continuous rain beginning Tuesday morning.
Weather Warnings and Danger Levels
The federal government has issued a warning with a danger level of 3 out of 5 for the Lower Valais (expected rainfall: 50-90 millimeters) and the west of the Bernese Oberland (expected rainfall: 40-70 millimeters). “Only in the far east will it remain dry for a longer time in the morning,” stated MeteoNews meteorologists.
Warning Details
The weather warning for both regions will be in effect from 11:00 AM on Tuesday until 11:00 AM on Wednesday. The most severe rainfall is anticipated from Tuesday at 6:00 PM to Wednesday at 3:00 AM.
Expected Effects of the Rain
As a result of the danger level imposed, residents in the affected areas should prepare for several potential impacts:
- Possible local flooding.
- Increased risks of landslides.
- Swiftly rising water levels in rivers and lakes.
Safety Precautions: How You Should Behave
During this period of intense rainfall, it’s crucial to take precautions to ensure your safety and minimize risks:
- Avoid areas near rivers and lakes, as well as steep slopes.
- Stay clear of mountain streams due to the danger of debris flows, which can occur suddenly without warning.
Long-Term Outlook: What to Expect in the Coming Week
While a brief improvement in conditions is expected on Wednesday morning, the weather will remain changeable with a mix of clouds, occasional rain, and breaks of sunshine. MeteoNews forecasts temperatures to hover around 15 degrees Celsius. Sketchy weather is anticipated to continue into Thursday with heavy cloud cover and sporadic showers, but no significant rainfall amounts.
As the week progresses, temperatures may drop on Friday due to the bise (cold, dry wind). However, conditions are expected to warm up towards the weekend, with drier air, especially in mountainous areas. The zero degree limit is predicted to rise above 3000 meters in western Switzerland. Expect warmer temperatures in southern regions, rising to around 19 degrees Celsius.
Case Studies: Historical Rainfall Patterns in Switzerland
In recent years, Switzerland has experienced fluctuating weather patterns, with significant rainfall leading to the following incidents:
| Year | Rainfall (mm) | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 150 | Severe flooding in Lucerne |
| 2022 | 120 | Minor landslides in Alpine regions |
| 2023 | 180 | Evacuations in Lower Valais |
Benefits of Staying Informed
Remaining aware of weather forecasts and warnings not only helps protect your property but also enhances personal safety. Here are important benefits of staying informed:
- Preparedness—advance knowledge allows for timely actions.
- Risk reduction—understanding weather patterns can mitigate risks.
- Peace of mind—knowledge reduces anxiety during severe weather events.
Practical Tips for Residents and Travelers
Here are some practical guidelines to follow during this period of intense rainfall:
- Always check the latest weather updates from official channels.
- Keep an emergency kit ready, including essential supplies like medications, food, and water.
- Consider alternative transportation options if traveling through affected areas.
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