Southeastern Europe: Heatwave forecast to persist over Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Hungary, Kosovo, Serbia, and Slovenia through at least July 4 /update 1

Event

Forecast models indicate that a heatwave will persist across much of southeastern Europe through at least July 4. The affected area includes parts of eastern Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Hungary, Kosovo, Serbia, and Slovenia. Maximum daytime temperatures of 30-40 C (86-104) are likely across most of the affected area over the coming days. The high temperatures will pose a health threat to those in the area, as well as cause possible disruptions to transport and other services across the affected region.

As of July 1, the respective meteorological authorities from the affected countries have issued the following weather warnings:

• Red heatwave warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Bacs-Kiskun, Bekes, Csongrad-Csanad, Hadju-Bihar, Jasz-Nagykun-Szolnok, and Pest (including Budapest) counties in Hungary.

• Orange heatwave warnings: Across parts of eastern Austria; across all of Bosnia and Herzegovina; Karlovac, Osijek, and Zagreb regions in Croatia; Baranya, Borsod-Abauj-Zemplen, Fejer, Gyor-Moson-Sopron, Heves, Komarom-Esztergom, Nograd, Somogy, Szabolcs-Szatmar-Bereg, Tolna, and Veszprem counties in Hungary; across Kosovo; across Serbia; and across central, northeastern, southeastern, and southwestern regions of Slovenia.

• Yellow heatwave warnings: Across areas of eastern Austria not under orange warnings; across the rest of Croatia not under orange warnings; Vas and Zala counties in Hungary; and the northwestern region of Slovenia.

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

Hazardous Conditions
The extended period of oppressive heat and dry conditions may produce ideal circumstances for wildfire growth throughout the region. Heatwaves also 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 during prolonged exposure to high temperatures. These health risks could also extend to relatively healthy individuals during significant heatwave events. In addition to significantly impacting athletes and those who work outdoors, high temperatures can cause problems for people using mass transit. The lack of air conditioning and cramped vehicles during rush hour may lead to some passengers being hospitalized for dehydration.

Transport and Utilities
Very high temperatures may warp rail tracks and force passenger and freight trains to operate at reduced speeds. Road surface damage is also possible, and overheated vehicles may worsen traffic problems in urban areas where congestion is already a problem. Commercial trucking disruptions might occur, as very high temperatures put more stress on engines, making tire blowouts more common. Major flight disruptions are unlikely at regional airports, but general aviation disruptions are possible, and some airfreight carriers could reduce cargo loads. High temperatures could lead to an increased demand for electricity, which might trigger localized brownouts or blackouts, exacerbating hazardous conditions when air conditioning is no longer possible.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. During heatwaves, remain indoors in air conditioning when possible. If outdoor activities are necessary, frequently rest in shaded areas; avoid activity during the hottest times of the day. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Avoid alcoholic beverages, which are dehydrating; drink water that is bottled or has been boiled. Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Cotton fabrics are more cooling than synthetics. Promptly seek medical attention if signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke develop. Charge battery-powered devices in case prolonged electricity outages occur.

Resources

MeteoAlarm
Austria Central Institute for Meteorology and Geodynamics (ZAMG)
Federal Hydrometeorological Institue of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Croatian Meteorological and Hydrological Service (DHMZ)
Hungarian Meteorological Service
Republic Hydrometeorological Service of Serbia
Slovenia Environment Agency (ARSO)