Stormy weather sweeps across Lithuania, Vilnius region expected within hours

Stormy weather is moving across Lithuania, with the Vilnius region likely to be affected within hours, national broadcaster LRT reports, citing Meteo.lt data.

Short rain showers with thunderstorms are expected in many parts of the country on Tuesday, accompanied in places by squalls and hail. The first intense weather fronts were recorded in western Lithuania in the early afternoon, with the Vilnius area expected to experience storms by around 5 p.m.

As of 2:10 p.m., storm clouds were moving across southern Lithuania, accompanied by thunderstorms and wind gusts of 15–20 m/s. The main storm belt is moving northeast, meteorologists said. In the coming hours, rain clouds will continue to shift northeast, with short downpours, thunderstorms, and hail expected in some areas. Wind gusts from the east may reach 15–20 m/s.

The highest risk of severe storms is in the southeastern part of the country, including the Druskininkai, Varėna, and Šalčininkai municipalities, as well as the southern part of the Vilnius district.

Vilnius city municipality’s company Grinda warned residents that thunderstorm clouds could reach the Vilnius area after lunch, with the storm expected around 5 p.m. While the storm is more likely to hit the Vilnius district, city residents are also advised to prepare. Temperatures may drop sharply to around 20°C, with wind gusts up to 25 m/s, heavy rain, and possible hail.

During severe storms, authorities recommend securely closing windows and doors, collecting lightweight objects in yards, balconies, and other open areas, and not parking cars near tall trees. People outdoors should avoid standing under trees, near billboards, power lines, lightning rods, or metal towers, and stay away from open areas, water bodies, or swimming. If caught driving in a storm, motorists should remain highly focused, keep both hands on the wheel, and adjust speed according to road conditions.

Weather changes are expected on Wednesday, with scattered showers, some with thunder, continuing overnight. Temperatures will hover around 13–18°C. During the day, rain is expected only in some parts of Lithuania, with temperatures reaching 21–26°C.