Balkans: Adverse weather forecast across much of Serbia, Kosovo, and North Macedonia through at least May 28

Event

Unstable weather conditions are forecast across much of Serbia, Kosovo, and North Macedonia through at least May 28. Weather warnings for thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, high temperatures, and strong winds have been issued by the respective meteorological agencies May 24 and further isolated thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are forecast over the coming days.

As of May 24, the Republic Hydrometeorological Service of Serbia (RHMS) has issued the following weather warnings for Serbia and Kosovo:

• Orange thunderstorm warnings: Southeast, Southwest, Sumadija, and Western regions in Serbia and Kosovo.

• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Eastern and Pomoravlje regions in Serbia.

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Southeast, Southwest, Sumadija, and Western regions in Serbia and Kosovo.

• Yellow high temperature warnings: Bacna, Banat, Belgrade, Promoravlje, Southeast, Southwest, Sumadija, and Western regions in Serbia and Kosovo.

North Macedonia's Hydrometeorological Service has issued a weather warning for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms from mid-May 24 across many parts of the country, including the Skopje Valley. The thunderstorms will bring localized torrential downpours, strong winds, and possible hailstorms.

Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of the weather alerts over the coming hours and days.

Hazardous Conditions
The storms could produce rounds of heavy precipitation, strong winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity across the affected area. Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides cannot be discounted in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil. Strong winds associated with the stormy conditions could cause damage to utility infrastructure and bring sporadic power outages across parts of the affected area.

High temperatures could pose a threat to vulnerable groups - such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with respiratory illnesses - due to the increased possibility of heat stroke or heat exhaustion. Hot and windy conditions could also increase forest fire potential in areas that avoid significant precipitation.

Transport
The severe weather will likely contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways. Strong winds might pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments prior to travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays, as well as potential supply chain disruptions, where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

MeteoAlarm
Republic Hydrometeorological Service of Serbia
North Macedonia Hydrometeorological Service