A dangerous thunderstorm is expected in Riga on Thursday, June 11, with the possibility of large hail. As a result, in the morning, residents of areas where dangerous weather may occur will receive a message through the mobile alert system.
According to meteorologists' forecasts, an orange alert has been issued in Riga — this is the second highest category of danger. The local government urges residents to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary and to especially avoid parks, cemeteries, recreational areas, and playgrounds. During thunderstorms, trees and their branches may break.
Meteorologists warn that on Thursday from 12:00 to 16:00, thunderstorms with very heavy rainfall, sharp gusts of wind up to 20-24 meters per second, and hail are expected in the central and eastern regions of Latvia. Large hail is possible in some areas. As the situation develops, information in the alerts may be updated.
On Thursday morning, a message will be sent via mobile broadcasting to areas that may be threatened by bad weather. Residents will receive such notifications directly on their mobile phones.
The State Fire and Rescue Service urges people to prepare in advance for the bad weather: fully charge mobile phones, download the 112 app, prepare flashlights and batteries, remove items from balconies that could be blown away by the wind, secure lightweight objects in the yards of private homes, and avoid parking cars under or near trees.
During thunderstorms, it is advisable to stay indoors and only go outside in case of extreme necessity. On the street, one should avoid trees, billboards, scaffolding, and bridges. At home, windows, doors, and attic hatches should be closed, and one should not stay near windows or leave lit candles unattended.
If children need to go outside during bad weather, they should preferably be accompanied. Using an umbrella during strong winds is not recommended: it reduces visibility, increases the impact of wind gusts, and can injure others.
