The Croatian Meteorological and Hydrographic Service (DHMZ) issued a serious warning on Saturday, forecasting that parts of Croatia will be under the influence of an extremely dangerous heatwave from Sunday, 9 August, to Wednesday, 12 August. This meteorological phenomenon poses a risk of seriously endangering the health of citizens during the four-day duration of the extreme weather conditions.
A red alert, the highest level of danger, has been declared for the areas of Rijeka, Split and Dubrovnik for all four days of this heatwave. This measure indicates the highest level of threat and requires strict adherence to preventive measures to prevent heat-related health issues.
Temperature forecasts indicate morning air temperatures between 16 and 21 °C, while on the Adriatic coast these values will be significantly higher, between 24 and 28 °C. Daytime air temperatures will mostly range between 29 and 34 °C, although temperatures of 34 to 37 °C are expected in the Adriatic, as well as in the interior of Istria and Dalmatia.
The weather conditions on land will be characterised by light winds, while in the Adriatic a moderate to strong bura will blow during the night and in the morning. During the day, a moderate north-west and south-west wind is expected. Experts from the DHMZ stress that high temperatures that do not drop at night can cause serious health issues.
Health issues are particularly possible for people with chronic illnesses, children and the elderly. Experts are therefore warning citizens and tourists to take all precautions. It is recommended to avoid the sun during the hottest part of the day and to drink plenty of fluid to mitigate the negative effects of the extreme heat.
