Strong winds swept across parts of Switzerland Monday evening, prompting a Level 3 warning – indicating significant danger – from MeteoSchweiz. The warning encompassed the cantons of Appenzell, Liechtenstein and St. Gallen, specifically the Werdenberg and Kerenzerberg-Seeztal regions, as well as both northern and southern Glarus, Muotathal, Goldau-Ägeri, Flüelen-Unterschächen, Gersau-Engelbergertal, and Meiringen-Gadmertal.
A Level 2 warning, signifying moderate danger, is in effect for much of Graubünden. Authorities cautioned that the winds could cause smaller branches to break. Above 1400 meters, wind gusts could reach speeds of up to 140 kilometers per hour, according to the national weather service.
MeteoSchweiz warned of potential impacts including falling branches and isolated uprooted trees, as well as the possibility of unsecured objects like tents and scaffolding being blown over. The agency also highlighted an increased risk of accidents on roadways due to strong crosswinds, particularly on bridges.
The federal authorities recommend avoiding forests, trees, and tree-lined avenues. Residents are advised to secure loose outdoor items – such as flowerpots, garden furniture, and bicycles – in the coming hours.
MeteoSchweiz anticipates wind gusts between 90 and 120 kilometers per hour in exposed locations. Above 1000 meters, gusts could range from 100 to 140 kilometers per hour. The wind is primarily coming from the south. According to forecasts from Monday morning, the strongest winds are expected between Tuesday midnight and Tuesday noon.
Current weather information for Graubünden indicates a temperature of -1°C as of 3:26 AM on Tuesday, February 17th. The probability of precipitation is high, at 95% throughout the early morning hours, decreasing to 40% by 3:00 AM. Temperatures are expected to fall to -4°C by 7:00 AM before gradually rising to 3°C by 3:00 PM.
WetterOnline reports that whereas the weather in Graubünden is currently partly cloudy and partly sunny, dense cloud cover is expected Tuesday and Wednesday.
