A dramatic change in weather is expected across the Balkans in the coming days, with meteorologists forecasting heavy rainfall, storms and a sharp drop in temperatures of up to 15 degrees Celsius.
The regional heatwave, which peaked in July according to meteorological platform Istramet, is likely to give way to cooler and wetter conditions, with forecasters calling the shift a “major meteorological turning point.”
“After a few more hot and humid days, especially on Thursday and Friday, widespread instability is expected over the weekend,” Croatian meteorologist Zoran Vakula said in a briefing for Jutarnji list. “The entire country will likely experience thunderstorms, heavy rain, and a notable cooling – in some parts, daytime temperatures may not exceed 25°C.”
The Croatian Meteorological and Hydrological Service (DHMZ) said the change will be triggered by a deepening upper-level cyclone accompanied by a moist and unstable air mass. A surface low-pressure system will move across the Adriatic on Saturday and Sunday, bringing with it intense downpours, thunderstorms, and strong winds. Coastal areas may also experience waterspouts and hail.
Heavy rainfall is expected to peak late Saturday and early Sunday, particularly in central and northern Croatia and the northern Adriatic. Urban flash floods are possible in areas where drainage systems are overwhelmed.
Daytime highs, currently exceeding 35°C in parts of the region, will drop significantly. By Sunday, inland temperatures will hover around 25°C, and by Monday and Tuesday, they may fall to just 21°C during the day and 15°C overnight. The Adriatic coast will also cool, with highs dropping to the low 20s.
A second wave of rainfall is forecast for early next week, with another upper-level low forming over Italy and crossing the Balkans. More thunderstorms, strong winds, and local flooding are possible through Tuesday.
Authorities have advised residents to monitor weather alerts and adjust plans accordingly, as brief but intense rainfall could lead to flash floods and localized damage.
Despite the coming cooldown, meteorologists expect the return of above-average temperatures in August, keeping the risk of further heatwaves and summer storms high.