Heavy rain and storm flood streets in Riga as forecasters warn of strong winds

Latvia experienced intense rainfall on Saturday, August 22, causing flooding in several areas. By 1 p.m., Riga had recorded 32 millimeters of precipitation, according to the Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre (LEGMC). Even higher totals were recorded outside the capital — Kalnciems saw over 37 millimeters, while Dobele received 40 millimeters, roughly 62% of its entire monthly rainfall norm.

In most of Zemgale, as well as in Sēlija, Latgale and Vidzeme, including Riga, the heaviest rain has already passed, though showers continue and some areas may still see intense downpours. In Kurzeme, the strongest rain is still expected, along with possible thunderstorms.

Storm warning issued

After 2:30 p.m. Saturday, authorities activated the national cell broadcast alert system to warn residents of an approaching windstorm, sending the message across the country except southern Latgale. In the afternoon, wind gusts in the north and northwest could reach 20–24 meters per second, rising to 25–32 m/s in places by evening. In Riga, gusts of 25–30 m/s are expected, capable of breaking tree branches, throwing loose objects and disrupting power supply. An earlier morning alert had already warned of very heavy rain.

Flooded streets in the capital

Riga deputy mayor Edvards Ratnieks reported that heavy rain had flooded several roads in the city. Water levels rose notably under the Stone Bridge and the Vanšu... actually Salu Bridge, complicating traffic in both locations. Pumping operations were underway on multiple streets, including Mālpils, Daugavgrīvas and Ostas Avenue, among others. City services had six water-pumping units ready to deploy, with two more in reserve.

Rain to continue into Sunday

Following Saturday's storm and prolonged downpours, rain is forecast to persist across most of Latvia into Sunday. Overnight, rain will continue nationwide, with long, heavy rainfall and possible thunderstorms in the north, while winds could reach up to 30 m/s. In Riga, heavy rain is expected Sunday morning, easing to occasional showers by midday as temperatures rise to +15…+17 degrees Celsius.