On Thursday, April 24, 2025, residents across Poland should brace for a day marked by significant weather changes, as the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) has issued multiple warnings regarding severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. The forecast predicts that the weather will shift drastically, with strong winds and localized flooding becoming major concerns.
In regions such as Silesia, Lesser Poland, Subcarpathia, and Świętokrzyskie, rainfall could reach alarming levels, with estimates suggesting totals between 50 to 70 mm. This precipitation could lead to local flooding, particularly in urban areas where drainage systems may struggle to cope with the sudden influx of water. The IMGW has issued first-degree warnings for several counties, including Żywiec, Bielsko-Biała, and Cieszyn, which will remain in effect until midnight on Thursday.
Forecasters are particularly concerned about the southern regions of Poland, where the convergence of winds from a shallow low-pressure system in the Carpathians is expected to enhance storm development. "There is a real risk of local flooding in urbanized areas," the IMGW stated, highlighting potential exceedances of warning levels in controlled watersheds.
As of Thursday morning, cloud cover across the country will vary significantly. In Krakow, for instance, cloud coverage is expected to be around 92%, with a maximum temperature reaching 22°C, making it feel like 23°C due to humidity levels. Occasional rain is anticipated, with predictions of up to 4 mm of precipitation. The day will start with sunrise at 05:30 and end with sunset at 19:48.
Meanwhile, in Poznań, the forecast calls for nearly complete cloud cover at 99.9%. The temperature will range from a chilly 10.7°C to a warm 19°C, with no expected rainfall. Winds will be gentle, blowing from the southwest at speeds between 2.7 to 4.5 km/h, which may feel quite pleasant despite the overcast skies.
Contrastingly, the weather will be quite different in Łódź, where similar cloudy conditions are expected, but with a slightly lower temperature range. The maximum temperature is forecasted to be around 19°C, and residents can expect a relatively mild day without rain.
In the broader Wielkopolska province, temperatures will show a range of conditions. For example, Chodzież will see temperatures between 9.5°C and 18.1°C, while Kalisz is expected to have highs of up to 19.4°C with minor rain. The general humidity level across the region will be around 64.7%, which is considered optimal for comfort.
As the day progresses, the IMGW plans to announce the highest levels of storm warnings, specifically in the Silesian and Lesser Poland voivodeships. These warnings will cover various counties, including Tatra, Nowy Targ, and Limanowa, where the risk of severe weather is heightened. Alerts of the second degree are also anticipated for parts of Opole, Świętokrzyskie, and Podkarpackie.
In addition to the immediate concerns about thunderstorms and heavy rain, the overall weather pattern indicates a significant shift from the previous days. The forecast for Friday, April 25, suggests a cooler day with temperatures dropping to around 15°C and cloudy conditions with light showers. This pattern of fluctuating temperatures and rain is expected to continue into the weekend.
Residents are urged to stay informed and prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions. The IMGW recommends keeping an eye on local forecasts and being ready for possible evacuations in areas prone to flooding. The organization emphasizes the importance of safety during severe weather events, advising people to avoid unnecessary travel during storms.
As Poland braces for this weather event, the community's resilience and preparedness will be crucial. With the potential for significant rainfall and strong storms, staying informed and ready for the worst is essential for everyone.
In summary, Thursday, April 24, 2025, will be a day of severe weather across Poland, particularly in the south. With warnings issued and forecasts predicting heavy rain and thunderstorms, residents should take precautions to ensure their safety and stay updated on changing conditions.