Torrential Rain Causes Devastation
A powerful rainstorm triggered heavy flooding and landslides in Bosnia and Herzegovina, claiming the lives of at least 15 people. The storm, which struck overnight, caused widespread destruction, and authorities are scrambling to find missing individuals. The flood has blocked critical transport routes, cutting off entire communities.
Rescue Efforts Underway
Rescue operations are in full force, with the Bosnian army and volunteers mobilized to assist. Defense Minister Zukan Helez emphasized that rescuing survivors trapped by landslides is the top priority. He confirmed that more fatalities are being reported as rescue teams reach affected areas. Troops have been dispatched to assist wherever possible.
Jablanica Suffers Major Losses
The town of Jablanica has been hit the hardest, with 14 of the reported deaths occurring there. Another victim was found in Fojnica, a town near Kiseljak. Flooding has also impacted other areas like Konjic, Kreševo, and Buturović Polje. Roads and train lines have been severely damaged, making access to these areas nearly impossible.
Infrastructure Destroyed
Infrastructure across the region has been devastated. The Jablanica fire station reported that the town is completely isolated, as debris has rendered roads and railways unusable. While landline phones still work, mobile signals are down, further complicating rescue efforts. The flooded town remains largely cut off from aid.
Dramatic Drone Footage Shows Scale of Damage
Drone footage aired on Bosnian television highlights the extent of the flooding. Entire towns and villages are submerged in water, and viral videos on social media reveal scenes of muddy torrents and severely damaged roads. A major road connecting Sarajevo to Mostar, along with a railway line, was swept into the Neretva River in a massive landslide.
Residents Warned to Stay Indoors
Authorities are warning residents to stay on upper floors of their homes to avoid the rising floodwaters. The civic protection service reports widespread destruction, with domestic animals and vehicles swept away by the surging waters. Lower floors of buildings have been rapidly filling with water, putting more lives at risk.
Warnings Extend to Neighboring Countries
The impact of the storm has reached beyond Bosnia. Neighboring Croatia is also experiencing heavy rain and strong winds, prompting road closures and preparations for the Sava River to flood in Zagreb. Montenegro has reported similar conditions, with some villages cut off and homes flooded.
Ongoing Threats and Recovery
As Bosnia continues to grapple with the immediate aftermath of the flooding, authorities remain on high alert for more potential victims and damage. The full scope of the destruction is still being assessed, and the recovery process is expected to be long and difficult. Warnings about further rains and possible landslides are keeping the region in a state of emergency.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Irish Examiner
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