Balkan Heatwave Hell: Temperatures Soar to 39°C, Croatia and Serbia Sizzle!
Imagine this: temperatures soaring to a scorching 39 degrees Celsius, turning the Balkans into a literal oven! Croatia and Serbia are under the brutal grip of a heatwave that spares no place or time. While people in Makarska are suffocating on overcrowded beaches, Zagreb’s city center is almost deserted – people are fleeing the heat like it’s the apocalypse.
Heat That Kills – Literally!
Zagreb recorded a blistering 38°C today, with Karlovac region locally exceeding 38 degrees. In Serbia, Belgrade is the second hottest capital in Europe after Athens, with temperatures surpassing 40°C! The Serbian Republic Hydrometeorological Institute has issued a red meteorological alarm, meaning weather conditions are dangerous to human health.
Beaches Packed, People Melting!
On the Makarska Riviera, beaches are packed with local tourists seeking relief from the heat. Some protect themselves with scant clothing, others swim, but the heat is relentless. Nights bring brief showers and thunderstorms, but that’s only temporary relief. The Adriatic Sea is whipped by strong bora winds, but even that can’t save anyone from this hellish heat.
How to Survive? Doctors Warn!
Dr. Milica Grozdanović from Zaječar warns that it’s crucial to avoid going outside between 10 AM and 5 PM. Light clothing, hats, sunglasses, and a bottle of water are must-haves. Sunscreen isn’t just for the beach – it should be applied daily, even on cloudy days! Children and the elderly are most vulnerable, and chronic patients feel the worst effects.
Animals in Danger!
It’s not just humans suffering. In Maryland, USA, a local animal shelter urgently sought help after their air conditioning broke down, causing indoor temperatures to rise to 28°C, endangering the animals. Over 40 animals were temporarily placed with foster families. If this continues, our pets might be in trouble too!
How Are People Cooling Off? Watermelon and Markets Full of Life!
At the Čačak market, watermelons reign supreme in summer. People buy melons, apricots, zucchini, cucumbers, and tomatoes – all high in water content and naturally cooling. Vendors don’t give up even under this scorching sun, and smiles and cheerfulness are their weapons against the heat.
What’s Next?
Meteorologists predict the heatwave will last, with temperatures remaining high. Croatia has issued a red alert for three regions, while the rest of the country is under a yellow warning. Serbia expects temperatures between 35 and 39 degrees, with possible showers and thunderstorms later in the day.
Conclusion?
The Balkans are melting, and so are we! This heatwave isn’t just an inconvenience – it’s a danger to health, animals, and daily life. If you’re already at the beach or market, don’t forget to hydrate, wear protection, and of course, throw in a sarcastic comment about how this is “just another beautiful summer day.” Who knows, your heat joke might just go viral!
So, how are you battling this hellish heat? Got any tricks or are you ready to move to Antarctica? Share your thoughts, because in days like these, laughter is the best medicine!
