Devastating Floods in Bosnia and Herzegovina: A Nation in Crisis

At least 14 people died and many others went missing in Bosnia and Herzegovina due to devastating floods and landslides. The emergency response included seeking military assistance to aid affected areas. Nearby countries offered support, while climate change was cited as a contributing factor.

Torrential rains and landslides wreaked havoc in Bosnia and Herzegovina, claiming at least 14 lives and leaving many others missing on Friday. The central region, particularly the municipality of Jablanica, saw homes, roads, and bridges swept away, prompting officials to report the area as completely isolated.

In response to the crisis, Bosnia's multi-ethnic presidency requested military aid for rescue efforts in the broader Jablanica region, deploying engineers, rescue units, and a helicopter to save people trapped, including 17 from a mental hospital. This disaster marked the worst flooding since 2014 when over 20 individuals perished.

The Bosnian government has declared a state of natural disaster and established a crisis committee to manage recovery operations, with neighboring Croatia and Serbia extending help. Additionally, meteorologists blame climate change for extreme weather patterns, which have spurred widespread destruction across the Balkans.

(With inputs from agencies.)