Countries across the Western Balkans are enduring a prolonged heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius this week, prompting authorities to impose water restrictions and triggering power shortages due to declining hydropower output.
The extreme weather has heightened concerns about water security and public health, while some governments have turned to electricity imports to cope with reduced domestic generation.
Albania: Drought forces energy imports, water strain in farming regions
In Albania, temperatures exceeded 40°C in central and northern regions, including Tirana. The government has announced that hydropower production has dropped significantly, forcing the country to import electricity worth approximately €60 million so far this year, according to the Ministry of Energy.
The lack of rainfall has also affected agriculture. Farmers in the Mat and Dibër areas report irrigation challenges as river levels continue to drop.
“We are monitoring the situation closely. Water management and energy imports are our immediate priorities,” said the Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy in a statement.
Bosnia and Herzegovina: Mostar records Europe’s highest temperature
The city of Mostar registered 41.4°C, one of the highest temperatures in Europe this week. The heat has placed pressure on local water supplies and increased the risk of wildfires.
Public health authorities have urged residents to stay indoors during peak daytime hours and to avoid strenuous activity.
Serbia: Rural areas face water rationing, health warnings issued
In southern and central Serbia, local authorities have implemented water usage restrictions, especially in rural municipalities with limited supply infrastructure. Public health services in Belgrade and Niš have issued heat warnings, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and young children.
“We advise residents to limit outdoor exposure and increase hydration,” the Serbian Institute of Public Health said in an alert.
Kosovo: Pristina shuts public pools amid shortages
Kosovo is also experiencing water shortages, prompting the closure of public swimming pools in Pristina due to low supply, according to city officials. Temperatures across the country have ranged between 35°C and 39°C.
Environmental groups have called on the government to accelerate investments in water infrastructure.
North Macedonia: Scorching temperatures and low river flow
In Skopje and the Vardar valley, high temperatures nearing 39°C have been recorded. Hydrological services report critically low river flows, especially in the Crna and Vardar river basins.
Authorities have not yet introduced restrictions but are urging households and businesses to conserve water.
Montenegro: Coastal and inland areas affected
Montenegro’s coast, including Podgorica and Bar, has seen temperatures above 38°C, with the national meteorological institute noting the ongoing dry spell is among the most intense in recent years. No significant precipitation is forecast in the coming days.
While national meteorological agencies forecast continued heat through early next week, no major rainfall is expected, and hydrological conditions are likely to remain critical.