Floods and Landslides in Bosnia-Herzegovina

The catastrophic event was triggered by a severe rainstorm that hit the region, causing rivers to overflow and landslides to bury homes. Areas around Jablanica, a key town on the route between Mostar and Sarajevo, experienced some of the worst impacts, with reports of entire neighborhoods submerged. Rescue services have been mobilized, and local authorities are urging residents to remain indoors as they assess the situation. The destruction has also affected neighboring countries, with reports of flooding in Montenegro and rising water levels in Croatia, indicating a broader regional crisis. Scientists have noted that climate change is exacerbating such extreme weather events, leading to increased rainfall intensity and subsequent flooding risks.

Impact on Communities

• Fatalities and Missing Persons: Initial reports indicated at least 14 deaths, which later rose to 16 as rescue efforts continued. Many individuals are still unaccounted for, complicating recovery efforts.
• Infrastructure Damage: Key transportation routes, including roads and railways, have been severely damaged or rendered impassable, isolating communities and hindering rescue operations.
• Emergency Response: Local authorities have declared a state of emergency, with military and volunteer assistance being called to help in rescue and recovery efforts.

Personal Accounts

Residents have described harrowing experiences as floodwaters surged into their homes, often while they were asleep. Many reported losing personal belongings, pets, and even family members in the chaos. The rapid onset of flooding caught many off guard, leading to frantic escapes as waters rose alarmingly fast.

Broader Context

This disaster is part of a troubling trend in the Balkans, where extreme weather has become more frequent. The region has seen significant climate-related challenges, including prolonged droughts followed by intense rainfall, which has led to devastating floods in the past. Scientists attribute these changes to human-caused climate change, emphasizing the need for better preparedness and infrastructure resilience in the face of such natural disasters.