Saturday mostly less warm, locally possible more pronounced showers

European countries have been hit by severe storms and thunderstorms, raising concerns about whether Croatia will face a similar scenario. The weather pattern has shifted dramatically, with heatwaves giving way to unstable conditions across much of the continent. In recent days, powerful storms have struck several European regions, bringing heavy rainfall, lightning, and strong winds. These extreme weather events have caused damage and disrupted transportation, particularly in Switzerland and Italy, where tornadoes have damaged hundreds of homes. Meanwhile, parts of southern France have also experienced intense weather, highlighting the widespread nature of the phenomenon. The stormy weather has affected central Europe as well. From France through the Alps into Germany, Austria, the Czech Republic, and Poland, there has been an increased risk of severe thunderstorms, large hail, strong winds, and flash floods. In Switzerland, these weather conditions have already impacted air travel, leading to the cancellation of 27 flights from Zurich. In the United Kingdom, heavy rains following an unusually dry and hot summer have triggered flooding and transport issues. These developments underscore the severity of the current weather situation across the region. In Croatia, the weather forecast indicates a gradual shift toward cooler and more variable conditions. According to meteorologist Tomislav Kozarić from the Croatian Hydrometeorological Service (DHMZ), Saturday will see partly cloudy skies with mostly mild temperatures. However, localized heavy showers accompanied by thunderstorms are possible, especially in the eastern part of the country. Some areas could experience stronger downpours, while the central regions might see occasional rain and heavier showers, particularly in the morning. The western parts of Croatia are expected to remain partly cloudy, with the possibility of light rain and thunderstorms early in the day, followed by gradually clearer skies. Temperatures in the mountainous regions of Croatia are projected to range between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius, while the northern Adriatic coast will likely reach around 31 degrees. The Dalmation coast will remain the warmest, with temperatures ranging from 32 to 35 degrees. Despite the cooling trend, the risk of health impacts due to the ongoing heatwave remains high, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, chronic illness sufferers, and children. The DHMZ has issued warnings about the dangerous combination of high temperatures and localized heavy showers with thunderstorms, which could lead to sudden worsening of weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and gusty winds. On Sunday, the weather is expected to become more sunny, although instability in the atmosphere will persist. Across the mainland, sunny conditions will dominate, though local showers may still occur. On the Adriatic coast, the weather will remain predominantly sunny and hot. While there is currently no indication of the type of weather that has recently affected parts of Western and Central Europe, meteorologists warn of heightened atmospheric instability, especially where very hot and humid air masses meet colder ones. This could lead to sudden changes in weather patterns, including heavy rainfall and strong winds. The DHMZ has also issued alerts for Saturday, warning of the potential dangers posed by the combination of high temperatures and locally intensified thunderstorms. Red alerts are in effect along the Split and Dubrovnik regions due to the serious health risks associated with the heatwave. Yellow alerts have been activated in the Osijek, Zagreb, Karlovac, Gospić, and Rijeka regions, indicating the likelihood of stronger thunderstorms that could cause abrupt deterioration in weather conditions, including heavy rain and gusty winds. These alerts highlight the need for vigilance and preparedness among residents, particularly during the afternoon hours when the weather is expected to intensify.