Czech Republic Experiences Severe Thunderstorms and Flooding

Mid‑June 2026 saw a wave of intense thunderstorms across the Czech Republic, especially in central Bohemia, South Bohemia, Moravia and the Vysočina region. Rainfall rates reached 60‑100 mm per hour, hailstones up to 7 cm, and wind gusts of 70‑90 km/h. The storms knocked down trees, caused localized flooding in streets such as Jihlava’s Hruškové Dvory, and forced the suspension of railway services on several sections, including the Vimperk‑Čkyně line and the Kolín‑Kutná Hora corridor. Fire brigades responded to more than 100 incidents, dealing with fallen trees, water extraction, and technical assistance for blocked tracks.

Meteorological services issued several severe‑storm warnings for regions including Olomouc, Blansko and Litomyšl, forecasting up to 50 mm of rain, 2‑cm hail and 70 km/h wind gusts. Advisories urged residents to secure loose objects, avoid flooded areas, and limit travel under trees. The next few days are expected to bring cooler, clearer weather before another heat wave may develop later in the summer.