The largest number of incidents was recorded in western Poland, with most operations involving fallen trees and branches, damaged roofs and buildings, and other damage caused by strong winds.
According to State Fire Service spokesman Wojciech Gralec, firefighters responded to around 300 incidents in the Wielkopolskie province, western Poland, 170 in Lubusz, 162 in West Pomerania and 124 in Lower Silesia, the southern part of the country. A further 66 weather-related incidents were recorded in the early hours of Saturday morning.
"Most of the interventions concern dealing with the effects of strong winds – fallen trees and broken branches blocking roads, as well as securing damaged buildings and roofs," Gralec told PAP. "Fortunately, at this point we have no information about anyone being injured."
The Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) has issued weather warnings covering more than half of Poland.
First-level thunderstorm warnings are in force across nine provinces: West Pomerania, Pomerania, Warmia-Masuria, Lubusz, Wielkopolska, Kuyavia-Pomerania, Łódź, Mazovia and Podlaskie.
Thunderstorms in these areas may bring between 20 and 35 millimetres of rainfall, wind gusts of 70–85 km/h and local hail.
The thunderstorm warnings are expected to remain in force, depending on the location, until the morning hours on Sunday.
(aj)
SOURCE: IAR