Poland faces widespread thunderstorms and heavy rain

The Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) issued first‑degree weather alerts for most of Poland as a deep low pressure system moves eastward, bringing intense thunderstorms, heavy rain and strong wind gusts. In the Warmia‑Mazury region, rain totals of up to 60 mm are forecast, with localised flooding risks. Wind speeds may reach 80‑90 km/h in the north and up to 70 km/h elsewhere, and isolated hail and brief tornado‑like vortices are possible.

Alerts cover 18 counties in Łódź voivodeship, large parts of Mazowieckie, as well as western, northern and central regions. Authorities advise residents to avoid travel where possible, secure loose objects, keep away from trees and power lines, and carry emergency supplies. A fallen tree on Warsaw’s Międzynarodowa Street illustrates the damage potential.

The storm also harms the Baltic coast tourism sector: hotels in Ustka and other seaside towns report up to a 30 % drop in bookings, beach umbrellas blown away, and swimmers forced to wear raincoats. The combination of heavy rain, wind and hail poses short‑term safety concerns for both inland and coastal communities.