Meteorologists predict cooling trend next week as extreme heatwave continues Meteorological reports indicate that while temperatures have reached record highs this summer, a gradual decline is expected over the coming days. According to forecasts from the Slovenian Environment Agency (Arso), the intense heatwave will begin to ease by the end of the week, with temperatures dropping to around 30 degrees Celsius in central Slovenia and remaining near 35 degrees Celsius along the Adriatic coast. The agency predicts that normal summer conditions will return after August 16th, when Atlantic air masses are expected to bring cooler and more humid weather. The current heatwave has been one of the most severe in recorded history, with multiple temperature records broken across the country. In the last two weeks of July and the first week of August, temperatures frequently exceeded 35 degrees Celsius, with some areas experiencing prolonged periods above that threshold. On Sunday, the highest temperature ever recorded in Slovenia was set at 40.8 degrees Celsius at the airport in Cerklje ob Rki, matching the record from 2013. Meanwhile, the lowest nighttime temperatures remained unusually high, with some locations recording minimums above 28 degrees Celsius, contributing to widespread discomfort and health concerns. Agrometeorologist Andreja Sušnik noted that the region has already faced drought conditions since March and April, with soil moisture levels continuing to deteriorate. Weekly updates from the Slovenian Water Resources Management Authority show that most parts of the country are currently experiencing extreme drought conditions. She warned that even if rainfall increases in the coming days, it would likely not significantly improve the condition of crops, which have suffered extensive damage due to prolonged dry spells. “To achieve meaningful improvement in surface soil conditions, we would need more than 100 millimeters of continuous rain spread over several intervals,” she explained. Hydrologist Janez Polajnar confirmed that hydrological drought conditions this year rank among the worst in historical records, placing them fourth in severity. He described the situation as worsening, noting that rivers are flowing at only 30 to 50 percent of their usual capacity during early August. For example, the Mura River has very low water levels, with less than 30 percent of its typical flow. Similarly, the Ljubljana River and its tributaries, as well as the Sava and Soča rivers, are all experiencing critically low flows. The Soča, known for its cold waters, has seen its average daily temperature rise above 15 degrees Celsius, a dramatic shift from its usual conditions. Water management expert Iztok Rozman emphasized the importance of responsible water usage, particularly in light of ongoing shortages. He pointed out that some areas have already reduced water supply services, urging residents to monitor official advisories and follow recommendations. “We must act responsibly with our water consumption, especially in the face of potential further deterioration of the situation,” he advised. In the agricultural sector, the impact of the drought has been devastating. Jože Podgoršek, president of the Agricultural Forestry Association, reported that crop yields have dropped dramatically, with grasslands, arable fields, and permanent plantations suffering severe losses. “We are witnessing unprecedented yield reductions, with pasture lands completely dry even in mountainous and hillside regions, where such conditions were previously unheard of. Some farmers have already begun harvesting corn to address immediate needs, but the loss is expected to exceed 50 percent.” Fish farms and orchards are also facing challenges, with some fruit trees showing signs of premature aging, reminiscent of autumn. Dr. Nina Pirnat from the National Institute of Public Health highlighted the potential health risks associated with prolonged heat exposure, particularly for individuals with chronic illnesses. She recommended increased fluid intake, avoiding alcohol, using appropriate clothing, and maintaining cool indoor environments. As the heatwave persists, experts warn that the combination of extreme heat and drought could lead to long-term environmental and economic consequences. While relief is expected to arrive in the form of cooler and wetter weather starting next week, the damage caused by the current conditions may take months to fully recover from.
★
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
