Severe Floods Devastate Bosnia and Herzegovina: At Least 18 Dead
In a tragic turn of events, Bosnia and Herzegovina has been hit by the worst floods in years, resulting in at least 18 fatalities and many others reported missing. The floods, triggered by torrential rains, have wreaked havoc across central regions, particularly in Jablanica and Kiseljak, where homes, roads, and bridges have been severely damaged.
The Herzegovina-Neretva region has been particularly affected, with reports indicating that the bodies of several victims, including a baby, were discovered in Jablanica and Konjic. Witnesses describe the scene as “terrifying,” with entire villages submerged under water within minutes. Jablanica, a town of approximately 4,000 residents, has been isolated due to landslides that cut off access. The local mosque remains barely visible, with only its dome and minaret protruding above the floodwaters.
Local authorities have mobilized rescue operations, deploying army units and helicopters to assist in evacuating trapped residents. The situation remains precarious as adverse weather conditions are expected to persist over the weekend. A government spokesman compared the current crisis to the chaos experienced during the Bosnian war, emphasizing the unprecedented scale of the disaster.
In Kiseljak, located about 40 kilometers northwest of Sarajevo, rapid flooding submerged numerous houses and vehicles, leading to the deaths of at least two individuals. Eyewitness accounts describe how the rain began late Thursday and escalated dramatically by early Friday morning, transforming small streams into raging torrents. The mayor of Kiseljak reported that the city has been overwhelmed by water, with many residents unable to return home.
Neighboring countries, including Croatia, Montenegro, and Serbia, have also issued severe weather warnings as they brace for similar flooding conditions. While Croatia has reported no casualties, it has issued alerts for potential flooding in several regions. Meteorologists predict a return to calmer weather starting Saturday, offering a glimmer of hope amid the devastation.
As the region grapples with this natural disaster, the Bosnian government has declared a state of emergency, mobilizing resources to provide relief and support to those affected. The community's resilience will be tested as they begin to recover from the catastrophic impact of these floods.
