This weekend, Rome, Venice, and 19 other cities across Italy are experiencing a red alert due to soaring temperatures, as a heatwave is impacting the Balkans and prompting health warnings.
- Advertisement -
In Croatia, the national Meteorological and Hydrological Service has identified the capital, Zagreb, and its eastern regions as particularly vulnerable to the extreme heat. “Stay prepared and vigilant, as the heat poses significant health risks to vulnerable populations, especially the elderly and young children,” emphasized Bosnia’s meteorological institute.
Authorities in Croatia remain on high alert following forest fires that recently devastated dozens of homes along the country’s popular southern coast, known for its tourism. Meanwhile, in Albania, firefighters have successfully managed to contain eight significant blazes over the past 24 hours.
As we brace for the heat, Bakir Krajinovic from Bosnia’s Federal Hydro-Meteorological Institute stated, “This is just the beginning; we anticipate at least three heatwaves during the June-August period.” Recent temperature readings have already surpassed expectations for this month, with forecasts suggesting that July and August could see temperatures four to five degrees above the seasonal average. June was noted as the driest month on record in Bosnia, marking the lowest rainfall since records began 135 years ago.
Krajinovic also highlighted the impact of climate change, asserting that it drives “more intense” weather events, resulting in record-breaking temperatures becoming commonplace.
In Serbia, forecasts indicate that temperatures may reach as high as 39°C, well above the seasonal average, according to Serbia’s National Hydrometeorological Service. Fortunately, while a slight drop in temperatures is expected over the weekend, the heat is projected to rise again next week across several Balkan nations.
Meanwhile, Greek firefighters reported that a forest fire near Athens, which necessitated the evacuation of five villages frequented by local and international tourists, is now under control. However, authorities warn that the scorching temperatures pose a continued risk for wildfires, particularly around the capital and the northern Aegean islands. A spokesman for the fire service noted, “We have over 100 firefighters, along with 37 vehicles and a helicopter, ready and on standby in critical areas.” Unfortunately, fields, olive groves, and some structures suffered significant damage from both this fire and a previous blaze on the island of Chios, which devastated over 4,000 hectares in just four days.
Weather forecasts indicate that a heatwave will persist in the coming days, with temperatures projected to exceed 40 degrees Celsius, including in the capital of Athens.
“Preparedness is essential when nature displays such fury,” a spokesman advised, urging everyone to remain cautious and safe.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
