IMGW Issues Nationwide Wind Warnings as Baltic Beaches Close

Poland’s weather service has issued widespread wind warnings for Sunday, prompting the closure of approximately 140 Baltic Sea swimming areas due to dangerous waves and strong rip currents.

Alerts and Forecasts

The Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) has issued warnings for the Łódź, Świętokrzyskie, and parts of the Lesser Poland, Opole, Silesian, and Masovian voivodeships. Forecasts predict sustained winds of 40 km/h with gusts reaching 75 km/h, accompanied by a risk of thunderstorms and minor hail between 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM on Sunday.

First-degree warnings are also in effect for the northern regions of the Pomeranian and West Pomeranian voivodeships. In these areas, winds are expected to reach 45 km/h with gusts up to 75 km/h from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Such alerts indicate potential for significant material damage and risks to life and health.

Meteorological Outlook

European weather is currently influenced by an Atlantic high-pressure system, while a low-pressure trough from southern Scandinavia is bringing cool maritime polar air to Poland. Sunday’s forecast includes cloudy skies with intermittent rain and localized storms, with temperatures ranging from 18°C in the north to 23°C in the south and west.

Wind speeds remain moderate to strong, particularly at the coast and in the mountains, where gusts in the Karkonosze range may reach 100 km/h initially. Conditions are expected to stabilize slightly on Monday, with lingering rain in the north and southeast and temperatures peaking at around 21°C.

Coastal Safety Concerns

Approximately 140 bathing areas across the Baltic coast have raised red flags, prohibiting swimming due to high waves and strong rip currents. Safety officials emphasize that conditions can be lethal even for experienced swimmers.

Red flags have been reported across numerous locations in the West Pomeranian and Pomeranian voivodeships, including major resorts like Kołobrzeg, Mielno, Ustka, and Władysławowo. Authorities advise the public to monitor beach signage constantly and follow lifeguard instructions, as conditions may fluctuate throughout the day.