Due to the approaching storm, residents of Riga are urged not to visit parks, playgrounds, and cemeteries on Sunday 0 15

To ensure the safety of themselves and their loved ones, as well as to avoid hindering rescuers in dealing with the aftermath of the bad weather, the municipality urges residents to stay indoors unless necessary. It is especially recommended to refrain from visiting parks, cemeteries, recreational areas, and playgrounds, as there is a possibility of falling trees and branches.

The aftermath of the storm will be addressed by municipal services alongside the State Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) — they will clear paths in parks and other areas of fallen trees, repair damage to public transport contact networks, and carry out other necessary tasks, including monitoring water levels.

If the weather conditions cause damage threatening the life and health of people, communications, or the movement of public transport, residents are urged to call the emergency services at the unified number 112.

If you notice objects blown down by the wind, as well as trees or branches that pose a danger and require immediate response, the SFRS urges you to report this immediately by calling 112 so that the dangerous situation can be resolved as quickly as possible.

In cases where a fallen tree does not pose a danger, you can report it to the municipality's 24-hour hotline at 1201 or by email at 1201@riga.lv.

If a tree has fallen on private property, it is essential to take a photo of it before removal, which should then be attached to the application, also notifying the Department of Urban Development of the Riga City Council.

If a tree or large branch has fallen in the courtyard of an apartment building, near a public building, or on a specific territory, residents should contact the building or site manager. In turn, the owner or legal possessor must then contact the Department of Urban Development.

After the danger has been eliminated, the branches must be removed by the owner or manager of the respective area. Small branches can be disposed of in bio-containers, while larger ones should be sent for processing into chips or disposed of in another way.

As previously reported, cold air will arrive in Latvia on Sunday, which will persist into the following week, with strong winds and precipitation expected. Meteorologists warn of a possible destructive storm.

During the day, an increase in northwestern winds with gusts of up to 20–26 meters per second is expected across the country. Rain and snow are anticipated, with hail in some areas; however, starting from the western regions, cloud cover will decrease, and the sun will shine. Temporary snow cover may form in some places, with air temperatures on Sunday not exceeding +2…+8 degrees.

The storm is expected to lead to falling trees, possible roof damage, and other destruction. The strongest gusts of wind are forecasted in Kurzeme, Zemgale, and western Vidzeme. The most significant wind impacts are possible from July 29, 2024, so it is recommended to cancel all outdoor events and trips. Movement may be hindered not only due to falling trees and branches but also because of snow and blizzards.