Almost the entire country in the red: A new DHMZ alert has arrived - extremely dangerous weather conditions

A new wave of extreme heat has swept across Croatia, prompting the State Hydrological and Meteorological Institute (DHMZ) to issue red weather alerts for much of the country. The warnings come as temperatures have already exceeded 35 degrees Celsius at numerous measurement stations during early afternoon hours. According to DHMZ data, the highest recorded temperature was in Bilogora, reaching 37.5°C at 13:00 local time. Other notable locations included Osijek-Čepin with 37.2°C, Daruvar and Slavonski Brod at 36.8°C, Zagreb-Grič at 36.5°C, and Knin at 36.4°C. Additional hotspots were noted in Kutjevo (36.2°C), Krapina and Ogulin (36.1°C), Gorice near Nova Gradiska and Gradište (36.0°C), and Pazin at 35.7°C. The red meteorological alert covers seven regions of Croatia due to exceptionally high temperatures. In the Osijek region, temperatures are expected to exceed 39°C throughout the day, while the Karlovac region faces temperatures above 38°C and the Zagreb area will see temperatures surpassing 37°C. In the Rijeka region, temperatures are forecasted to rise above 36°C, and in the Gospić and Split areas, they will cross 35°C. In the Dubrovnik region, temperatures are anticipated to reach over 34°C. Meteorologists warn that these conditions represent extremely dangerous weather scenarios. They advise citizens to avoid being outdoors during the hottest parts of the day, to drink sufficient fluids, and to pay particular attention to protecting children, elderly individuals, and those with chronic illnesses. In addition to health risks, the DHMZ warns that infrastructure could face operational issues due to the extreme temperatures. The current heatwave follows previous periods of intense heat this year, which have already strained public services and raised concerns among health officials. Hospitals in several regions have reported increased admissions related to heat-related illnesses, including dehydration and heatstroke. Emergency services have been on heightened alert, preparing for potential surges in calls related to heat exposure. Local authorities have begun implementing measures to mitigate the impact of the heat. Public cooling centers have been opened in major cities, and advisories have been issued for vulnerable populations to stay indoors during peak heat hours. Schools and workplaces in some areas have adjusted schedules to reduce exposure during the hottest times of the day. In response to the rising temperatures, energy providers have warned of potential strain on the power grid, particularly in regions experiencing the highest temperatures. Some areas have already seen increased electricity consumption as residents rely more heavily on air conditioning units. Power companies are monitoring the situation closely and have contingency plans in place should demand surge further. Residents in affected areas have described the conditions as increasingly difficult, with many reporting exhaustion after prolonged exposure to the sun. Farmers and outdoor workers are particularly concerned about the long-term effects of the heat on crops and livestock. Some agricultural experts have expressed worry about potential damage to summer harvests if the heat persists. As the heat continues, meteorologists predict that temperatures will remain elevated through the coming days, with no immediate relief in sight. The DHMZ has urged continued vigilance and adherence to safety guidelines to prevent heat-related incidents. Authorities are working closely with emergency services to ensure preparedness and responsiveness to any emerging challenges posed by the extreme weather conditions.