The Balkans in Crisis: Heatwave Sparks Forest Fires and Lake Dry-Ups

The Balkans, experiencing a severe heatwave, are facing forest fires and a dried-up Serbian lake. Meteorologist Vladimir Djurdjevic warns such events may become more regular due to climate change. High temperatures impact several countries including Croatia, Montenegro, and North Macedonia, prompting emergency actions and public health warnings.

The Balkans and much of Europe are enduring a severe heatwave, leading to forest fires and the unprecedented drying up of Serbia's Rusanda salt lake. Meteorologist Vladimir Djurdjevic cautioned that such heatwaves could become more regular occurrences due to climate change.

Temperatures soared across the Balkans, with countries like Croatia, Montenegro, and North Macedonia expecting around 39°C. In Serbia, extreme conditions have dried up the Rusanda salt lake for the first time, prompting public health warnings in 10 municipalities.

Forest fires raged in North Macedonia and Albania, with North Macedonia declaring a state of emergency. A World Bank report emphasized the need for significant investment in the Western Balkans to mitigate climate change impacts. Similar heat challenges have affected other European nations including Italy, Greece, and France.

(With inputs from agencies.)