Heavy thunderstorms have swept across Slovenia, with the stormfront moving eastward over the country. According to reports from the Slovenian Environment Agency (Arso), the weather system has brought widespread rainfall, strong gusts of wind, and localized lightning. The orange weather warning was issued for the entire country, highlighting the potential for severe conditions. The shift marks the end of an extended period of August heat, which saw temperatures consistently above normal levels. The storm activity began in the afternoon, initially affecting isolated areas before expanding across the whole nation by late afternoon. By evening, the stormfront had reached eastern parts of Slovenia, bringing with it intense downpours, powerful gusts, and occasional lightning strikes. Weather observers noted the possibility of hail, adding to the severity of the situation. In some regions, particularly near the Adriatic coast, wind speeds exceeded 100 kilometers per hour, causing disruptions and damage. In the region of Slavnik, the strongest gust recorded reached 106 kilometers per hour, while in Podnanos and Bilje near Nova Gorica, winds were measured at 92 and 76 kilometers per hour respectively. These extreme conditions led to power outages in several areas, with approximately 5,800 households affected. Electric utility companies reported that crews were actively working to restore services, though challenges remained due to the intensity of the storms. In some cases, trees fell onto power lines, requiring immediate attention. The number of affected customers continued to rise, with nearly 9,300 residents left without electricity in certain districts, including those around Ljubljana and its surrounding areas. Emergency services responded to numerous incidents, including flooded basements, damaged roofs, and fallen trees. Firefighters were deployed to multiple locations, including Ajdovščina, Bled, Celje, and Koper, to address the aftermath of the heavy rains and strong winds. In the town of Komen, some rooftops were damaged, and one road leading to Kodreta, Čehovina, and Kobilje became impassable due to the flooding. Rescue teams struggled to reach these remote areas, emphasizing the extent of the disruption caused by the weather. As the storm system continues to move eastward, further heavy rain and strong winds are expected throughout the day. The weather service warned that localized flooding could occur, especially in low-lying areas, and advised residents to remain cautious. The orange alert was issued based on forecasts indicating that the stormfront would pass through much of Slovenia within less than six hours, intensifying as it progresses. The National Emergency Management Authority emphasized the need for vigilance, particularly for those camping or spending time outdoors, urging them to monitor radar updates and official warnings. Looking ahead, the weather is expected to gradually calm overnight, with partly cloudy skies dominating Saturday. Temperatures will drop significantly, with daytime highs likely to hover around 20 degrees Celsius. Sunday and Monday are forecasted to bring mostly sunny and dry conditions, with temperatures rising back to around 25 degrees Celsius. However, the week ahead shows signs of more unsettled weather, with increased chances of rain on Tuesday and again later in the weekend. The movement of this weather system reflects broader atmospheric patterns, with a low-pressure area over northern Italy and central Europe contributing to the instability. Strong westerly winds have brought moist and unstable air over Slovenia, creating favorable conditions for the formation of thunderstorms. Similar weather systems are also expected to affect neighboring Italian regions, with light rain and occasional thunderstorms spreading into other parts of the Balkans. The transition from summer heat to cooler, wetter conditions is part of a larger seasonal pattern, marking the beginning of autumn's influence on the region’s climate.
★
Keep the news honest.
ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €4/month.
Become a Supporter
Slovenia
