Extreme Heatwave Impacts Southeastern and Eastern Europe

Extreme Heatwave Sweeps Southeastern and Eastern Europe

Temperatures across southeastern and eastern Europe have reached alarming levels, with the Serbian National Weather Service (RHMZ) forecasting a relentless heatwave expected to last for an entire week. Predictions indicate that temperatures could soar as high as 41°C (105.8°F), prompting warnings of conditions that are dangerous, and in some areas, extremely hazardous for both people and animals.

According to the RHMZ portal, the most severe impacts of this heatwave will be felt in the southern regions of Serbia.

Romania: An ‘Oven’ of Heat

In Romania, the return of the heatwave is particularly harsh, affecting the southern and western parts of the country. Authorities have issued orange and yellow weather warnings that remain in effect until Thursday evening. Meteorologists describe the conditions as feeling akin to an “oven,” with residents struggling to cope with the sweltering temperatures.

One resident from Bucharest shared her experience, stating, “Instead of enjoying my time on the terrace, I find myself confined indoors with the air conditioning running. I never imagined I would prefer air conditioning over the refreshing coolness of summer.” Temperatures in some areas of southern Romania have reached a staggering 43°C (109.4°F), although nights offer slight relief with cooler temperatures.

This summer, Romania has already faced multiple instances of extreme heat, significantly impacting vulnerable populations. In Bucharest alone, emergency calls related to heat-related illnesses have surged by 20%, particularly among individuals with pre-existing heart conditions. While next week may bring a slight respite with some anticipated rainfall, temperatures are still expected to remain above the seasonal average.

Devastating Heat Affects Bosnia’s Agriculture

The ongoing heatwave and accompanying drought have wreaked havoc on Bosnia’s corn harvest. Farmers in the key grain-producing region around Bijeljina report that approximately half of their crops have suffered damage this year. The country has endured three major heatwaves this summer, leaving farmers powerless as they watch their corn crops wither in the fields.

Stevan Mesarović, a local agronomist, commented on the unusual state of the plants, saying, “It is the end of August, and the corn should have been much greener, thriving until at least the first ten days of September.” Grain farmer Jovica Lazić, whose 40-hectare plots include corn, wheat, barley, and oats, is facing an early harvest this year and anticipates yields significantly lower than expected. He lamented, “What remains is insufficient. I believe we have lost between 40% and 60% of our expected crops.”

Experts attribute the heat stress to either rendering the pollen unviable or diminishing maize yields. Throughout the summer, Bosnia has experienced almost no rainfall, with daily temperatures consistently ranging from 35°C to 40°C (95°F to 104°F) over the course of June, July, and August.

The rising temperatures are altering rainfall patterns dramatically. Mesarović noted, “Our experiences mirror those of central Spain; we face prolonged stretches of hot, dry weather followed by short, intense periods of rainfall. The climate is shifting; we are witnessing more frequent episodes of extreme weather.”

Some farms have resorted to installing irrigation systems to sustain crops such as soybeans, but even these efforts cannot combat the relentless drying of the soil under such harsh conditions, according to the farmers.