Storm to bring heavy rain and winds of up to 30 m/s across Lithuania

Lithuania’s Hydrometeorological Service is warning of heavy rain and powerful wind gusts across the country on Saturday, with western Lithuania expected to receive more than half of its monthly August rainfall in a single day, LRT reported.

Forecasters said west winds will reach 18 to 23 metres per second, with gusts of 24 to 27 metres per second in many areas and up to 28 to 30 metres per second in some places.

Heavy or very heavy rain is expected in much of western Lithuania, with rainfall totals of about 40 to 70 millimetres over 24 hours. Forecasters said this is equivalent to pouring four to seven buckets of water onto each square metre.

Paulius Starkus, a forecaster with the Lithuanian Hydrometeorological Service, told LRT Radio that the approaching cyclone could uproot trees or break branches, disrupt traffic and affect electricity supplies.

Rain had already become intense in much of the country early Saturday, with thunderstorms reported in some places. The heaviest morning rain was recorded in central Lithuania, around the Kėdainiai and Kaunas districts. Winds were expected to strengthen later in the day.

Temperatures on Saturday are forecast to reach 15 to 20 degrees Celsius in western Lithuania and 21 to 26 degrees in the east.

Residents are advised to close windows and doors securely, bring in loose items from yards, balconies and other open spaces, and avoid parking near tall trees. People outdoors should not stand under trees.

Before leaving home for an extended period, residents should check that the gas and electricity are switched off, the water is turned off, doors are locked and windows are closed.

On Sunday night, short periods of rain are expected in western and northern districts, spreading to many areas during the day, with thunderstorms possible in some places. Southwesterly and westerly winds will reach 9 to 14 metres per second, with gusts of 15 to 20 metres per second in many areas at night and in some areas during the day. Temperatures will range from 9 to 14 degrees overnight, 15 to 17 degrees on the coast, and 17 to 22 degrees during the day.