Severe thunderstorms, floods and heat wave hit Poland

The Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) issued first‑ and second‑degree warnings and RCB alerts for most Polish voivodeships as a series of intense thunderstorms moved across the country in mid‑July 2026. Forecasts called for heavy rain of 20‑55 mm, local hail and wind gusts up to 115 km/h, causing localised flooding, street inundations and damage to property in places such as Kalisz, Jaworzno and Jelenia Góra.

At the same time, a heat wave pushed daytime temperatures to 30‑32 °C across regions including Łódź, Podkarpacie and Mazowieckie, while night lows remained only 16‑19 °C, increasing the risk of dehydration and heat‑related illness. Health officials urged residents, especially seniors, children and people with chronic conditions, to drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine, stay in shade during the hottest hours and keep animals safe.

Local fire services responded to dozens of rescue operations, pumping water from flooded basements and streets, while emergency crews warned of continued danger and advised securing loose objects and avoiding travel on inundated roads.