Potential for intense rainfall and thunderous downpours expected in Sochi

Sochi and Sirius, popular tourist destinations on the Black Sea coast, are bracing themselves for adverse weather conditions over the next few days. According to the Sochi Hydrometeorological Center, the forecast for the period between September 7 and 9 includes strong rains, thunderstorms, hail, and gusty winds.

The incoming weather is expected to bring a significant increase in water levels in rivers, with some rivers potentially reaching critical levels due to heavy rains and thunderstorms. The risk of small-scale landslides also increases in mountainous areas, as the Center for Monitoring and Forecasting of Emergencies in the region has warned.

One of the more unusual weather phenomena that could occur is the formation of waterspouts over the sea on the Magri-Veseloe stretch in the Sochi area. Waterspouts are rotating columns of air and water that can form over bodies of water during severe weather conditions, typically associated with strong thunderstorms and high winds. The Center for Monitoring and Forecasting of Emergencies has not yet issued a specific warning for waterspouts, but their potential hazard to sea vessels in the area should not be overlooked.

Strong rains and thunderstorms, accompanied by hail and gusts of wind up to 20 m/s, are expected during this period. The Sochi Hydrometeorological Center has not reported any significant changes in the wind speed or thunderstorm intensity that could lead to waterspouts. However, the possibility of their formation adds to the overall risk of adverse weather conditions.

The Center for Monitoring and Forecasting of Emergencies in the region has issued a warning for potential flooding and landslides due to the predicted weather conditions. The authority responsible for warning about adverse weather phenomena in the Sochi and Sirius region is typically the Russian Federal Service for Hydrometeorology and Environmental Monitoring, known as Roshydromet.

Despite the potential risks, visitors and residents are advised to stay informed and follow any safety guidelines issued by local authorities. The Center for Monitoring and Forecasting of Emergencies in the region has not yet issued a specific warning for waterspouts, but it is recommended to exercise caution when near bodies of water during this period.