Record-Breaking Heat Waves Grip the Balkans: A Scorching Summer

The Balkans experienced their hottest summer on record in 2024, with persistently high temperatures and no substantial rainfall. Average temperatures rose significantly across the region, causing droughts, forest fires, and agricultural stress. Climate scientists attribute the extreme weather to global warming and fossil fuel emissions.

This summer marked a record-breaking heat wave throughout the Balkans, with temperatures soaring to unprecedented levels and little to no rainfall in sight.

Serbia, among other countries in the region, saw average temperatures rise by over 3 degrees Celsius, a pattern echoed across Slovenia, Bosnia, and Croatia. Meteorologists and climate scientists point to global warming as the primary cause of these sweltering conditions.

Droughts led to dried-up rivers and water restrictions, while forest fires ravaged the landscapes of North Macedonia and Albania. Agriculture and power production struggled, underscoring the severe impact of the extreme weather conditions.

(With inputs from agencies.)