These warnings are primarily used for widespread precipitation (also potentially in combination with a thunderstorm in the summer). Please note: the warning threshold values differ for north and south of the Alps within the same warning category.

Rain warnings are issued for levels 2 – 5.

Meaning of danger level 2 (moderate danger)

The level of bodies of water may rise rapidly where the ground is already saturated.

Recommendations for action

• Observe any flood warnings issued by the Federal Office for the Environment FOEN.
• Keep away from bodies of water and steep slopes.

Additional information

• Sustained rainfall north of the Alps and in the Alps: 30-50 mm/24h; 50-80/48h; 60-100 mm/72h
• Sustained rainfall south of the Alps and in Simplon: 70-100 mm/24h; 100-130 mm/48h; 130-160 mm/72h
• Sustained rainfall in Verbano, Valle Maggia: 100-150 mm/24h; 150-200 mm/48h; 190-250 mm/72h

Meaning of danger level 3 (considerable danger)

The level of bodies of water may rise rapidly. Sudden landslides are possible on steep slopes. Localised flooding may occur, particularly in underpasses, underground garages and cellars/basements. In mountainous areas, sudden debris flows may occur along stream courses. Traffic/transport routes may be restricted – longer journey times and an increased risk of accidents are to be expected.

Recommendations for action

• Observe any flood warnings issued by the Federal Office for the Environment FOEN.
• Remain at a safe distance from bodies of water and steep slopes.
• Stay away from cellars and basements if there is a risk of flooding.
• Avoid stream courses in the mountains, as debris flows may occur there suddenly and without warning.

Additional information

• Sustained rainfall north of the Alps and in the Alps: 50-80 mm/24h; 80-110 mm/48h; 100-130 mm/72h
• Sustained rainfall south of the Alps and in Simplon: 100-130 mm/24h; 130-160 mm/48h; 160-200 mm/72h
• Sustained rainfall in Verbano, Valle Maggia: 150-200 mm/24h; 200-250 mm/48h; 250-300 mm/72h

Meaning of danger level 4 (high danger)

The level of bodies of water may rise rapidly. Sudden landslides are possible on steep slopes. Localised flooding may occur, particularly in underpasses, underground garages and cellars/basements. In mountainous areas, sudden debris flows may occur along stream courses. Traffic/transport routes may be restricted – longer journey times and an increased risk of accidents are to be expected.

Recommendations for action

• Observe any flood warnings issued by the Federal Office for the Environment FOEN.
• Remain a safe distance from bodies of water and steep slopes.
• Stay away from cellars and basements if there is a risk of flooding.
• Avoid stream courses in the mountains, as debris flows may occur there suddenly and without warning.

Additional information

• Sustained rainfall north of the Alps and in the Alps: 80-120 mm/24h; 110-150 mm/48h; 130-170 mm 72h
• Sustained rainfall south of the Alps and in Simplon: 130-160 mm/24h; 160-200 mm/48h; 200-240 mm/72h
• Sustained rainfall in Verbano, Valle Maggia: 200-250 mm/24h; 250-300 mm/48h; 300-350 mm/72h

Meaning of danger level 5 (very high danger)

The level of bodies of water may rise rapidly. Sudden landslides are possible on steep slopes. Localised flooding may occur, particularly in underpasses, underground garages and cellars/basements. In mountainous areas, sudden debris flows may occur along stream courses.Traffic/transport routes may be restricted – longer journey times and an increased risk of accidents are to be expected.

Recommendations for action

• Observe any flood warnings issued by the Federal Office for the Environment FOEN.
• Remain a safe distance from bodies of water and steep slopes.
• Stay away from cellars and basements if there is a risk of flooding.
• Avoid stream courses in the mountains, as debris flows may occur there suddenly and without warning.

Additional information

• Sustained rainfall north of the Alps and in the Alps: >120 mm/24h; >150 mm/48h; >170 mm/72h
• Sustained rainfall south of the Alps and in Simplon: >160 mm/24h; >200 mm/48h; >240 mm/72 h
• Sustained rainfall in Verbano, Valle Maggia: >250 mm/24h; >300 mm/48h; > 350 mm/72h