Kosovo, Serbia: Adverse winter weather forecast across the region through at least Nov. 29

Adverse winter weather conditions are forecast across Kosovo and much of Serbia through at least Nov. 29. Disruptions are ongoing across parts of southeastern and southwestern Serbia as of Nov. 27 due to blocked roads and power outages associated with recent snowfall. Authorities have stated most primary and secondary routes are passable; however, some minor roads remain blocked and several hundred people have been cut off in affected villages. Affected areas include Babusnica, Brus, Crno Trava, Ivanjica, Nova Varos, Sjenica, Tutin, and parts of Vranje. Local states of emergency have been issued in parts of the affected regions. Further snowfall, rainfall, and strong winds are forecast across much of the country Nov. 28. Hazardous travel conditions are likely due to slippery roads and reduced visibility caused by blowing snow.

The Republic Hydrometeorological Service (RHMS) of Serbia has issued the following weather warnings across the country Nov. 28:

• Orange snow and ice warnings: Eastern and Southwestern Serbia regions.
• Orange strong wind warnings: Banat Region in Serbia.
• Yellow snow or ice warnings: Across Kosovo and Southeastern and Western Serbia regions.
• Yellow strong wind warnings: Across Kosovo and Pomoravlje and southwestern Serbia regions.

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

In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts could lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Sporadic power outages are possible throughout the affected area.

The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions in the region over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Dangerous and challenging driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roads in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports.