Serbia Battling Severe Weather: Heavy Rainfall, Thunderstorms, and Hailstorms

Serbia Battling Severe Weather: Heavy Rainfall, Thunderstorms, and Hailstorms

Weather Warnings Issued

The Republic Hydrometeorological Institute of Serbia (RHMZ) has issued urgent warnings for heavy rain and thunderstorms in the Toplički and Jablanički districts. The warning, which was in effect from 19:50 to 20:50, reported severe storms arriving in Niš around 18:45, causing heavy rain in a short period and leading to mini lakes forming on the streets.

Damage to Crops

The villages surrounding Čačak and Gornji Milanovac were hit by a severe storm that included intense hail in the afternoon. Local residents reported a ten-minute hailstorm, featuring hail the size of hazelnuts, that caused significant damage to the apple crop just before harvest.

Further Warnings for Serbia

The RHMZ issued further warnings for intense showers with thunderstorms in certain parts of Serbia, including Belgrade, in the afternoon. Their website anticipates significant rainfall of 10 to 30 mm in a short period of time in regions of western and southwestern Serbia, followed by central and southern Banat, the Podunavsko district, parts of the Braničevski district, and Šumadija later at night. Thunderstorms and occasional, short-term hail are also expected in these areas.

Severe Weather and Its Impacts

These severe weather conditions have already caused localized flooding and crop damage. The warnings indicate that more areas, including Belgrade, may be at risk. In addition to the immediate damage, the weather conditions can also lead to power outages and transport disruptions. Traffic and commercial trucking delays might occur along regional highways, and strong winds might pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles. Flooding can render bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Flooding and debris on the roads can also cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways.

Precautions and Advice

Residents are advised to monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirming all transport reservations and business appointments prior to travel is advised due to potential localized travel delays and supply chain disruptions where flooding is forecast. It’s also recommended to avoid driving on flooded roads and to charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Climate Change and Extreme Weather

Meteorologists attribute the severe storms’ powerful magnitude to the string of extremely hot days that preceded them. Experts suggest that such extreme weather conditions are likely driven by climate change. As climate change progresses, we can expect more frequent and intense weather events such as these. The impact on the environment, agriculture, infrastructure, and daily life is significant and warrants urgent attention.