The storm in October caused widespread devastation in Bosnia, with the death toll rising to 26 people due to floods and landslides. Rescue teams are still searching for missing individuals, with one person still unaccounted for in the aftermath of the disaster. The storm hit four municipalities in the country’s central and southern regions, destroying homes, roads, and power infrastructure. In the village of Jablanica, 19 people lost their lives after being buried under a barrage of rocks from a quarry on the hill above. Local media reported that over a thousand people from nearby towns and cities came to help search for survivors and clean up debris in the affected areas.
The residents of Jablanica described being awakened in the middle of the night by the sound of floodwaters sweeping away their property. The flooding has also had a significant impact on the Neretva River, a popular tourist destination in Bosnia. Debris from the floods has clogged the usually emerald green river, causing further disruptions for locals and tourists alike. The extreme temperatures experienced in the country over the summer are thought to have contributed to the intensity of the flooding. Bosnia faced record-breaking heatwaves during the summer months, with temperatures reaching between 35C and 40C for several days in June, July, and August. The lack of rain during this time caused a drought that made it difficult for the soil to absorb excess water from the storm, exacerbating the damage caused by flooding in the country.
The scale of the destruction caused by the storm has prompted a collective funeral to be scheduled for the victims of the floods in Jablanica. With rescue teams still searching for missing individuals, the aftermath of the disaster continues to be felt throughout the region. The flooding has also cut off power infrastructure to several villages, further complicating recovery efforts in the affected areas. The community has come together in support of those affected, with over a thousand people joining the search for survivors and helping to clear away debris in the worst-hit areas. The devastation caused by the storm has highlighted the vulnerability of the region to extreme weather events and the importance of preparedness and resilience in the face of such disasters.
As Bosnia continues to recover from the impact of the storm, the focus remains on finding those still missing and providing support to the affected communities. The damage caused to infrastructure, homes, and the environment will require significant resources and time to repair. The country’s agricultural industry has also been affected by the extreme weather conditions, posing additional challenges for recovery efforts. The floods and landslides have underscored the need for proactive measures to mitigate the impact of future disasters in Bosnia, including improved infrastructure, early warning systems, and community preparedness. Despite the challenges ahead, the resilience and solidarity of the Bosnian people in the face of adversity are a testament to their strength and determination to rebuild and recover from this tragedy.