Poland hit by widespread windstorm and heavy rain

A powerful windstorm swept across Poland on 27 July 2026, prompting close to 400 fire‑department interventions nationwide. The hardest‑hit regions were the Subcarpathian, Lesser Poland and Świętokrzyskie voivodeships, where officials recorded up to 90 calls each. Winds gusted to 80–100 km/h, rain fell at 15–40 mm per hour and hail was reported in several areas. The Institute of Meteorology and Water Management issued first‑ and second‑degree warnings for eight voivodeships, and the Government Centre for Security sent SMS alerts warning of strong winds, heavy rain, possible flooding and power outages.

In Warsaw, the storm produced an intense downpour described as a "wall of rain," sharply reducing visibility and creating local street flooding. Drivers were urged to slow down and pedestrians to avoid low‑lying areas and manholes. Authorities emphasized continued caution as the heavy rain was expected to persist for several more hours.