Balkans Battle Extreme Weather: Storms, Fires, and Heatwaves

Heatwave and Storms

The Balkans have recently experienced severe weather conditions.

• Heatwave: Temperatures reached 40°C (104°F), creating hazardous conditions.
• Storms: Sudden storms brought relief but also caused significant damage.

Impact in Croatia

• Split City: A powerful storm hit, causing:
• Damage to buildings, including the Poljud soccer stadium.
• A ferry broke loose, sinking a small boat.
• Three people injured.

Impact in Serbia and Bosnia

• Belgrade (Serbia):
• A crane at a construction site collapsed, injuring one person.
• Flights disrupted at the airport.
• Wildfires: Over 600 wildfires have ravaged Serbia, destroying properties and endangering villages.
• Six people injured.
• Drought so severe that drinking water supplies are restricted.
• Officials warn of increased fire risks; some areas declared a state of emergency.

Climate Change Connection

Experts link these extreme weather events to climate change. Earlier in July, other parts of Europe also faced extreme heat and wildfires.