Heatwaves have become increasingly frequent, longer-lasting, and more intense over recent decades, according to data from Croatia's national weather service. The phenomenon is directly linked to the rise in temperatures across landmasses, oceans, and seas worldwide due to climate change. Analysis shows that heatwave frequency has increased two to three times compared to the mid-20th century, while the number of days affected by such events has grown two to five times, depending on geographic and climatic conditions. The average duration of individual heatwaves has extended by one to four days, and their intensity has also risen, daily peak temperatures during these periods have climbed by 1 to 3 degrees Celsius. These effects are evident even in regions previously unaffected, with evidence of expanding influence zones. In Croatia, climate data reveals similar trends. Over the past 30 to 40 years, there has been a marked increase in the number of hot days (where maximum temperature reaches 30°C), very hot days (35°C), warm or tropical nights (minimum temperature above 20°C), and prolonged periods without significant cooling, characterized by the absence of cooler air masses. These patterns align with broader European observations, reinforcing the connection between rising global temperatures and the intensification of extreme weather events. Heatwaves occur under specific synoptic conditions that allow for sustained warming of the air. One of the most common causes is the presence of a stationary anticyclone, which can last several days to weeks. Such systems are marked by clear skies, sinking air (subsidence), and adiabatic heating, leading to high atmospheric pressure, calm winds, and minimal precipitation. This lack of effective heat transfer exacerbates the accumulation of warmth in the atmosphere. Another contributing factor is the so-called “omega block,” a pattern where a powerful anticyclone becomes trapped between two cyclones, creating a near-stationary weather system. In this configuration, the jet stream flows around the blocked area, forming a shape resembling the Greek letter Omega. This results in prolonged periods of stable weather, often culminating in heatwaves. Additionally, the influx of extremely hot Saharan air from Africa plays a role, especially when combined with persistent westerly winds associated with a stationary cyclone over the eastern Atlantic. This allows large quantities of very hot, dry air to cross the Mediterranean and reach Central Europe. The self-amplifying nature of heatwaves is partly due to soil drying and increased plant transpiration. Initially, a significant portion of solar energy is used to evaporate water from the ground and plants. However, as the soil dries, less energy goes into evaporation, and more is directed toward direct heating of the soil, vegetation, and air. This shift from latent to sensible heat leads to further temperature increases, creating a positive feedback loop that intensifies the heatwave. Global warming, driven by increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases, is another key driver. Current global temperatures are approximately 1.5 to 1.8 degrees Celsius higher than pre-industrial levels. As a result, each modern-day heatwave develops within an already warmer atmosphere, making temperature extremes more pronounced. While the physical mechanisms behind heatwave formation remain unchanged, the baseline temperature has risen, resulting in stronger and more frequent occurrences. The duration of heatwaves is also influenced by changes in atmospheric circulation. The Earth’s atmosphere does not flow in simple circular paths but follows wave-like patterns known as Rossby waves. These waves are connected to the jet stream, which continuously moves eastward, causing deviations in weather patterns. Recent shifts in these patterns have contributed to the persistence of heatwaves, as they create conditions that sustain high-pressure systems for longer periods. Meteorological officials in Croatia, including head of the State Hydrometeorological Service Dr. sc. Ivan Güttler, have noted that the frequency and intensity of heatwaves have increased since the 1990s. He explained that while droughts and floods were once considered rare, today’s extreme weather events are becoming more predictable. Heatwaves are now forecastable up to seven days in advance, and public awareness of weather warnings is growing. Güttler emphasized that while some European countries experience record-breaking temperatures, Croatia benefits from the widespread use of air conditioning, reducing the risk of heat-related health impacts. Despite these advancements, challenges persist. For example, heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, particularly in northern Italy, have led to localized flooding and lightning-induced wildfires. These events highlight the complex interplay between rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns. Güttler also pointed out that larger hailstones, exceeding five centimeters in diameter, are now falling 300 percent more frequently than in the 1950s, posing new risks to infrastructure and agriculture.
3 reports
N1 HrvatskaIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 759 days agoThe article discusses the increasing frequency, duration, and intensity of heatwaves globally and in Croatia, linking them to climate change. It cites European analyses showing a two to threefold increase in heatwave occurrences since the mid-20th century, with some regions experiencing up to five times more days affected by heatwaves. Average durations have lengthened by one to four days, and temperatures during these events have risen by 1–3°C. Croatian climatic data supports these trends, noting significant increases in hot and very hot days, warm nights, and prolonged periods without cooling. The article explains the causes of heatwaves, including anticyclones, omega blocking patterns, and the influx of Saharan air masses. It highlights how prolonged heatwaves intensify due to soil drying and reduced evaporative cooling.
Bias read (Center): The article presents scientific data and explanations about climate-related phenomena without overt ideological framing. While it addresses climate change—a politically charged issue—it does so through objective analysis of meteorological trends and mechanisms, without promoting specific political立场
Why factuality (85): The article presents data from European analyses and Croatian climate data showing increased frequency, duration, intensity, and geographic reach of heatwaves, all linked to global warming. These trends align with widely accepted climate science and are supported by multiple sources. However, there
Why objectivity (75): The tone is informative but leans slightly towards emphasizing the impact of climate change, using phrases like 'dio naše meteorološke svakodnevice' which implies a growing normalcy around heatwaves. The article also uses emotionally charged language such as 'intenzivniji' and 'sve češći', which may
Jutarnji listIndependentCenterFactual 75Objective 6510 days agoDržavni hidrometeorološki zavod (DHMZ) u svojem Briefingu objašnjava trenutno stanje vremena u Hrvatskoj i predviđanja za srpanj. Glavni ravnatelj dr. sc. Ivan Güttler navodi da su u lipnju i početku srpnja bile toplinske valove, ali temperature nisu dostigle 40 stupnjeva kao u nekim dijelovima Europe. Trenutno se javlja serija nestabilnosti s olujama, velikim količinama oborina, udarima vjetra, tučom i gromovima, a rizik od požara povezan je s udarcima munje. Suše su smanjile razine rijeka, a očekuje se porast temperature do 30 stupnjeva na području Zagreba. Srpanj će završiti bez oluja. Güttler ističe da su u Europi promjenjene uvjete pod utjecajem globalnog zagrijavanja, s više energije i vodene pare, što dovodi do češćih i jačih oluja. Uspoređuje situaciju s prošlih desetljećima i naglašava da su zrna tuče u posljednjih 300 godina češće nego u 50-im godinama prošlog stoljeća. Predviđa se da će kolovoz biti topliji od prosjeka s mogućnošću kraćih hladnijih razdoblja.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual meteorological data and expert analysis without overt ideological slant. It discusses climate patterns, weather trends, and scientific observations based on historical comparisons and current measurements. While it references global warming and its effects, it does not立场
Why factuality (75): The article provides information on recent weather events, including heatwaves, thunderstorms, and droughts, citing an expert from the National Hydrometeorological Service. It references historical trends and seasonal forecasts, though these are not independently verified. The mention of specific we
Why objectivity (65): The tone is somewhat promotional, with repeated calls to engage through comments and social media. The focus on a single expert’s perspective may limit balance, and the use of terms like 'velike štete' suggests a concern-driven narrative rather than purely factual reporting.
N1 HrvatskaIndependentCenterFactual 70Objective 609 days ago Why are heatwaves becoming more frequent, longer and more intense?The article discusses the increasing frequency, duration, and intensity of heatwaves, linking them directly to the global rise in temperatures of land, oceans, and seas. It presents this information as part of the current meteorological reality, emphasizing the connection between climate change and extreme weather patterns. The piece includes interactive elements such as a poll asking for readers' opinions and invites engagement through comments and social media follow-ups. However, the content does not provide detailed scientific explanations or data sources to support the claims made.
Bias read (Center): The article frames the issue of heatwaves within the context of climate change but does not take a clear ideological stance. It presents the information neutrally, focusing on the observable phenomenon rather than advocating for specific policies or political positions. There is no evident editorial
Why factuality (70): This article includes quotes from a weather expert discussing recent weather patterns and future expectations. While it references past trends and current conditions, much of the content is speculative or based on forecasts rather than confirmed historical data. It mentions specific locations and ph
Why objectivity (60): The article has a more promotional tone, especially with repeated calls to comment and follow on social media. It also frames the discussion around a specific expert’s opinion, which can introduce bias. Phrases like 'najvećim izmjerenim zrnima tuče' suggest emphasis on dramatic effects, potentially
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