Poland faces cool autumn weather as IMGW warns of Tatra trail hazards

Synoptic situation across the continent

Central and Western Europe remain under the direct influence of high-pressure systems centred over the Bay of Biscay. In contrast, weather across the rest of the European continent is shaped by low-pressure centres and associated atmospheric frontal systems. Poland is located on the eastern fringe of the Biscay high-pressure area. The far northwestern edge of the country is affected by a shallow low-pressure trough extending from southern Scandinavia along with a connected occlusion front. A cool maritime polar air mass continues to flow into Poland from the west. The Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) reported that no thunderstorms will develop across the country on Saturday.

Daytime forecast and regional conditions

Saturday features predominantly heavy cloud cover across Poland, interspersed with wider clearings and temporary breaks in the cloud layer. Fading rain showers persist in the southeastern and eastern parts of the country, where local precipitation totals may accumulate to approximately 10 mm. Light and passing showers are forecast across northern and western districts throughout the day. Maximum temperatures range between 11°C and 13°C in the southeast, climb to between 17°C and 20°C across most regions, and reach a high of 21°C in western Poland. In Warsaw, conditions will remain partly to lightly cloudy with potential light showers, a maximum temperature of 19°C, and light variable winds shifting northwest. Atmospheric pressure in the capital will stand at 1009 hPa at midday and remain steady throughout the day. Winds across the country will stay largely light and variable, dominated by westerly directions, though the southeast will see light to moderate northwesterly breezes.

Nighttime temperatures and visibility drops

The forecast for Saturday night into Sunday indicates widespread cloud cover, though the southeastern half of the country will experience clearer skies and temporary cloud breaks. Passing rain showers will persist across the northwest and west, while lingering rain in the far southeast will gradually taper off. The eastern and southern regions will experience dense mist, with localized fog patches reducing surface visibility to 200 m. Minimum nighttime temperatures will fall to between 5°C and 9°C in eastern Poland, hover around 10°C in the central provinces, and stay between 12°C and 14°C in the west and along the Baltic coastline. Surface winds will remain light from the southwest across lowlands, while upper mountain elevations will experience gusty wind conditions.

Hazardous mountain conditions in the Tatras

Mountain rescue and park services advise against difficult trekking in the Tatra Mountains due to deteriorating autumn conditions. Following recent precipitation, hiking trails across the massif have become wet, slippery, and covered in deep mud. A low cloud base significantly reduces visibility, particularly above the upper forest boundary, creating conditions where tourists can easily lose orientation. Mountain visitors are advised to exercise heightened caution on the green trail heading to Nosal from the dam due to ongoing bridge repairs. Further trail difficulties and route impediments are present along the mountain corridor connecting Wielka Polana Małołącka, Przełęcz w Grzybowcu, and Wyżnia Kondracka Przełęcz. High-altitude ridge sections will also face gusty winds throughout the weekend.