Austria is preparing for a significant weather shift as a cold front is expected to bring heavy rainfall starting Thursday.

Meteorologists warn of potential downpours, with some regions possibly receiving up to 250 liters of rain per square meter over four days.

This is a stark contrast to the recent heatwave that marked the beginning of September.

The areas most at risk include the eastern Northern Alps, from Karwendel to the Salzkammergut and the Wienerwald.

The sudden change in weather is attributed to a cold front and a low-pressure system over Northern Italy, which will funnel moist air into Austria.

The heavy rains could lead to flooding, especially in areas already saturated from previous storms.

Authorities are on alert, and some events, like the Stadlauer Kirtag, have been preemptively canceled due to safety concerns.