Balkans Face Record-Breaking Heatwave With Temperatures Reaching 41 Degrees Celsius

Temperatures in the Balkans have reached alarming levels, with some areas expected to hit 41 degrees Celsius. This has led to health warnings across the region. In Croatia, Zagreb and the eastern parts are at the highest risk, as reported by the national Meteorological and Hydrological Service. Authorities remain vigilant after recent forest fires devastated homes along the southern coast.

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, meteorologists have advised residents to stay indoors due to predictions of temperatures reaching 41 degrees Celsius. "Be ready to suspend outdoor activities and prepared for high temperatures that will lead to health risks among vulnerable people, like the elderly and very young," Bosnia's meteorological institute stated.

This is just the first of at least three heatwaves expected in Bosnia from June to August, according to Bakir Krajinovic from the Federal Hydro-Meteorological Institute. He noted that temperatures this month have already surpassed forecasts. Predictions for July and August suggest they will be four to five degrees above average.

Krajinovic also highlighted that June was the driest on record in Bosnia, with rainfall levels at their lowest since records began 135 years ago. He attributed these extreme weather events to climate change, which is causing more frequent record-breaking conditions.

In Serbia, parts of the country are forecasted to reach 39 degrees Celsius, significantly higher than usual for this time of year. The National Hydrometeorological Service has issued warnings about these elevated temperatures.

Albania reported that its firefighters successfully controlled eight fires within a day. The heatwave is expected to ease slightly by Friday, with a temporary drop in temperatures over the weekend before rising again next week across several Balkan countries.

The ongoing heatwave highlights the growing impact of climate change on weather patterns in the Balkans. As temperatures continue to rise beyond seasonal averages, authorities are urging caution and preparedness among residents.

With inputs from WAM