Hellish Heatwave Hits the Balkans: When the Thermometer Hits 40°C and the Streets Empty Out!
Welcome to the Balkans, where summer this year isn’t just warm – it’s literally scorching! As Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, and Montenegro bake under the sun, temperatures soar up to 41 degrees Celsius. Yes, you read that right – 41! And that’s not just a number, it’s a red alert.
Heat That Kills – Literally!
In Republika Srpska and parts of Croatia, a red meteorological alarm is in effect, while in the Federation of BiH it’s orange. Temperatures climb to 40 degrees, and experts warn: if you don’t have to, don’t leave your house between 10 AM and 5 PM. In Mostar, a record temperature of 41 degrees was recorded – the highest in this part of Europe this year. Streets are deserted, yet outdoor workers keep working – as if the heatwave is just a joke.
Serbia’s Not Holding Back – Temperatures Up to 36°C, Winds Fighting the Heat
In Serbia, today is mostly sunny and warm, with temperatures ranging from 13 to 36 degrees. Winds are light to moderate, but strong in the east, northwesterly. Rare short showers with thunderstorms are expected only in the southwest. Belgrade is roasting at around 32 degrees, and the RHMZ forecasts the heatwave will last until early next week, with real relief only coming Tuesday evening.
Montenegro’s Not Far Behind – 41°C and Possible Showers
Podgorica and other parts of Montenegro are also baking at temperatures up to 41 degrees. Although sunny and very hot, continental areas may see cloud development and short rain showers with thunderstorms in the afternoon. Winds are mostly light and variable, meaning they can’t help much against the heat.
Health Alarm: Batut Warns of Dangerous Tropical Temperatures!
The Institute of Public Health “Dr Milan Jovanović Batut” issued a red meteorological alarm due to dangerous weather conditions lasting until July 10. Temperatures from 35 to 40 degrees can cause serious health problems – from mild heat stress to dangerous heat stroke. Symptoms include dizziness, weakness, cramps, and rash. Doctors advise drinking plenty of fluids, avoiding direct sun, and knowing how to help someone suffering heat stroke.
How to Survive Balkan Hell?
- Avoid going out during the hottest part of the day.
- Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine.
- Wear light clothing and hats.
- If you notice someone showing heat stroke symptoms, act immediately – lay them down, raise their legs, and give them water with a bit of salt.
Is This the New Normal?
As the Balkans bake at temperatures once reserved for deserts, the question arises – are we ready for such climate changes? Will our cities and villages become unbearable to live in? While meteorologists predict the heatwave will last a few more days before relief comes with rain and cooler temperatures, one thing is clear – summer 2023 won’t be forgotten easily.
The Bottom Line?
If you thought summer was just a time to enjoy the sun, think again. This year, summer is dangerous, hellishly hot, and demands serious preparation. So if you’re already outside, we hope you have a good fan, plenty of water, and a lot of patience. And if you have a hilarious story about how you survived this heat, share it – maybe it’ll make us all laugh or at least cool down a bit!
After all, who doesn’t love to complain about the heat? Everyone, right?
If you made it to the end, drop a comment – have you survived the heatwave yet or are you still sweating it out? And is this the worst summer ever?