Flash Floods and Landslides in Bosnia: 13 Dead, Dozens Injured
In Bosnia and Herzegovina, sudden flash floods and landslides have resulted in the tragic loss of 13 lives and left many injured. The disaster struck the Jablanica area, where a hill collapsed due to heavy rains, causing landslides and floods. Darko Juka, spokesperson for the Herzegovina-Neretva Canton government, confirmed the fatalities. Rescue operations were initially halted by overnight rain but resumed on Saturday.
Aerial images revealed extensive flooding in residential areas, catching many residents off guard and unable to evacuate. The landslide was triggered by sudden rainfall, which dislodged stone and rubble from a nearby quarry. The floods have had widespread impacts, prompting Bosnia’s Central Election Commission to postpone local elections in affected areas.
This summer, the Balkans experienced record temperatures and drought, which scientists say have reduced the land’s ability to absorb floodwaters. According to the World Bank Group’s Climate Change Knowledge Portal, Bosnia faces significant risks from climate-related disasters, with floods accounting for over 60% of such events since the 1980s. Despite contributing only 0.05% to global greenhouse gas emissions, Bosnia is among the top 40 countries most vulnerable to climate change, as noted by the UNDP.
Flooding was also reported in neighboring Croatia and Montenegro, but with less damage and no fatalities.
Doubts Revealed
Bosnia and Herzegovina -: Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country in Southeast Europe, on the Balkan Peninsula. It is known for its mountains and rivers.
Flash Floods -: Flash floods are sudden and intense floods that happen quickly due to heavy rain. They can cause a lot of damage because they occur with little warning.
Landslides -: Landslides happen when a large amount of earth, rocks, or debris falls down a slope. They can be triggered by heavy rain, earthquakes, or other natural events.
Jablanica -: Jablanica is a town in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is located in a mountainous area, which can be prone to landslides.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions -: Greenhouse gas emissions are gases like carbon dioxide that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to climate change. Countries with high emissions are often more responsible for global warming.
Climate Change -: Climate change refers to long-term changes in temperature and weather patterns. It is mainly caused by human activities like burning fossil fuels.
Croatia and Montenegro -: Croatia and Montenegro are countries in Southeast Europe, near Bosnia and Herzegovina. They are also part of the Balkan Peninsula.
