Bosnia and Herzegovina: Adverse weather forecast across southern, western, and central regions through at least Dec. 9

Severe weather forecast across much of Bosnia and Herzegovina through at least Dec. 9. Transport, business, utility disruptions possible.

Event

Heavy rainfall and strong winds are forecast across central, southern, and western regions of Bosnia and Herzegovina through at least Dec. 9. As of Dec. 8, authorities have issued the following warnings and watches across the affected area:

Red warning (the highest level on a three-tier scale) for heavy rainfall: Mostar Region.
Orange warning for heavy rainfall: Livno, Sarajevo, and Trebinje regions
Orange warning for strong winds: Banja Luka and Livno regions
Yellow warning for rainfall: Banja Luka and Foca regions
Yellow warning for strong winds: Foca, Mostar, Sarajevo, Trebinje, and Visegrad regions.

Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

Hazardous Conditions
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 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 are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.

Transport
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. The disruptive weather may cause some delays and cancellations at regional airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.

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-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.