Southeastern Europe: Adverse weather forecast across parts of southeastern Europe through at least July 27

Event

Thunderstorms are forecast across parts of southeastern Europe through at least July 26. The affected area includes parts of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Serbia, and Slovenia. Storms may be accompanied by heavy rainfall, strong wind gusts, and possible hail storms.

As of July 26, the respective meteorological agencies in the affected countries have issued the following weather warnings:

• Orange thunderstorm warnings: Mostar, Sarajevo, and Tuzla regions in Bosnia and Herzegovina; Gospic and Rijeka regions in Croatia; Backa and Srem regions in Serbia; and central, northeast, southeast, and southwest regions in Slovenia.

• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Banja Luka, Bihac, Foca, Livno, and Visegrad regions in Bosnia and Herzegovina; Karlovac, Osijek, and Zagreb regions in Croatia; Banat and Belgrade regions in Serbia; and northwest region in Slovenia.

• Yellow strong wind warnings: Rijeka Region and most coastal areas of Croatia.

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

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

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.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business arrangements before traveling in areas where thunderstorms are forecast. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast; plan for possible supply chain disruptions throughout the affected areas. 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 case prolonged electricity outages occur.

Resources

MeteoAlarm
Bosnia and Herzegovina Federal Hydrometeorological Institute
Croatian Meteorological and Hydrological Service (DHMZ)
Republic Hydrometeorological Service of Serbia (RHMS)
Slovenia Environment Agency (ARSO)