Polish Territorial Defense Forces on High Alert Due to Storm Forecast

Poland's Territorial Defense Forces (WOT) are on heightened alert as the country braces for severe weather conditions, including prolonged rainfall, strong winds, and thunderstorms. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz announced the measure, emphasizing that it is a precautionary step.

The increased readiness does not automatically deploy soldiers but significantly shortens the reaction time should assistance be required. This allows for forces to be prepared and positioned to provide aid where it may be needed in response to the predicted weather events.

Several WOT brigades have had their potential call-up times reduced. Soldiers from the 7th Pomeranian, 8th Kuyavian-Pomeranian, 12th Greater Poland, 13th Silesian, 15th Lubusz, 17th Opole, and 16th Lower Silesian Territorial Defense Brigades can now be summoned within six hours. Additionally, soldiers from the 11th Lesser Poland and 14th West Pomeranian Territorial Defense Brigades have had their potential call-up time reduced to 24 hours.

The alert is set to remain in effect for 48 hours. The Government Center for Security (RCB) has issued alerts for several regions, warning of potential flooding and advising citizens to stay clear of swollen rivers and follow the instructions of emergency services. The Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) has also issued warnings for storms, heavy rainfall, and strong winds, with the possibility of hail in some areas.

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We are raising the readiness of WOT in connection with the forecasts of prolonged rainfall, strong winds, and storms. The alert does not mean the automatic deployment of soldiers, but it shortens the reaction time and prepares forces and resources to provide assistance where it may be needed.