A relentless heatwave and severe drought are scorching the Balkan region, leading to widespread disruptions, including dangerous wildfires, agricultural damage, and significant challenges for both residents and tourists. Temperatures are soaring, prompting authorities to issue warnings and implement measures to mitigate the extreme conditions.
Record-Breaking Heat Grips the Balkans
Temperatures across the Balkan Peninsula are reaching unprecedented levels, with meteorologists forecasting highs of up to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in the coming week. Serbia experienced its hottest day on record since the 19th century, prompting health authorities to advise residents to stay in shaded or air-conditioned areas and avoid direct sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. This extreme heat is exacerbating an already severe drought, threatening harvests and impacting water supplies.
Wildfires Rage Amidst Dry Conditions
The intense heat and dry conditions have created a tinderbox effect, fueling numerous wildfires across the region. Bulgaria is battling significant blazes, with one near Kostinbrod impacting approximately 50,000 decares and damaging several properties. Firefighting efforts are ongoing, but unpredictable conditions and water supply issues are hampering containment. North Macedonia is contending with seven major wildfires, particularly in the Ezerani nature park, while Albania faces five out-of-control fires. Croatia has also seen fires near its coast, requiring extensive firefighting resources.
Impact on Daily Life and Tourism
The heatwave is significantly affecting daily life. In Greece, outdoor work for laborers such as couriers, food delivery riders, and builders has been paused during the hottest hours. The country’s most visited ancient site, the Acropolis, has been closed for several hours daily to protect tourists. Many workers with underlying health conditions are advised to work remotely. Tourists are seeking refuge in air-conditioned spaces or heading to cooler mountain resorts, with some expressing unpreparedness for the extreme temperatures. Farmers are also struggling, with one noting younger workers’ inability to withstand the heat.
Drought’s Devastating Effects
The prolonged lack of rainfall has led to severe drought conditions across the Balkans. In southeast Serbia, over a thousand cows and horses are without water, necessitating emergency supplies. Bosnia is experiencing what meteorologists predict could be its driest June in recent history, causing substantial damage to agriculture. In Kosovo, weeks without rain have nearly emptied Lake Fierza, with cows grazing in the exposed lakebed.
Key Takeaways
- Record-breaking temperatures are affecting the entire Balkan region.
- Severe drought conditions are leading to water shortages for livestock and impacting agriculture.
- Numerous wildfires are raging, threatening homes and natural landscapes.
- Authorities are implementing measures to protect public health and safety, including work pauses and site closures.
- Climate change is cited as a factor contributing to the increased frequency and intensity of such extreme weather events.
Sources
- Severe early drought affects people, animals and crops alike throughout Balkan region, AP News.
- Balkans braced for record-breaking heatwave, Reuters.
- Tourists, workers seek respite as Greece, Balkans hit by heat wave, Daily Sabah.
- Wildfires Sweep Bulgaria and the Balkans Amid Scorching Heatwave – Novinite.com, Novinite.com.
- Labourers barred from work, tourists kept from ruins as heatwave sears Greece, Balkans, Reuters.
