VIDEO Meteotsunami hits Hvar: The sea flooded the coast, and Korčula was suddenly flooded

A sudden surge of seawater overtook the coast of Hvar, with reports indicating the sea level rose more than one metre within minutes. The dramatic footage has sparked widespread attention, capturing the rapid rise and retreat of the ocean along the island’s shoreline. Similar scenes were recorded on Korčula, where the water level surged quickly before receding, leaving some boats nearly stranded. These unusual occurrences have been attributed to a powerful storm system moving through the Adriatic Sea, bringing intense weather conditions to parts of Croatia. The incident unfolded on July 21, 2026, around 8 pm local time, when residents and visitors on Hvar witnessed the sea level rising rapidly near the old town's waterfront. According to eyewitness accounts shared with local media, the water climbed several tens of centimeters in just seconds, flooding the promenade and surrounding areas. Multiple smaller fluctuations preceded the main surge, which reached over 1.5 metres above normal levels. The phenomenon was described as similar to a “meteotsunami,” a rare occurrence caused by atmospheric pressure changes triggering sudden waves. On Korčula, the situation mirrored that of Hvar, with the sea level rising abruptly and retreating just as swiftly. Witnesses reported that the water reached the first row of houses near the shore before pulling back, leaving behind a trail of confusion and concern among locals and tourists. The rapid shifts in tide caught many off guard, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the weather patterns affecting the region. The Croatian Meteorological and Hydrological Service (DHMZ) had issued a red weather warning for the Split region earlier that day, forecasting severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. However, the intensity of the weather in Split remained relatively mild compared to the coastal areas of Hvar and Korčula. The warning included alerts for potential flash floods and dangerous wind speeds, urging residents to take precautions. In addition, a yellow alert was active for the Dubrovnik-Neretva region, which includes Korčula, due to the approaching storm system. The storm system, characterised by a pronounced supercell cloud, moved eastward towards central Dalmacia, bringing with it heavy rain, lightning, and strong winds. Weather forecasts indicated that gusts could reach up to 140 kilometres per hour, posing a serious threat to maritime activities. While the coastline might experience less intense conditions, the risk of sudden wave surges and flooding remains high. Local authorities have advised citizens to monitor official forecasts, protect their property, and avoid unnecessary exposure to the elements during the storm. Residents and officials are now assessing the damage caused by the sudden changes in sea level and the accompanying weather. Some areas have already reported minor structural damage, particularly in low-lying regions where the water temporarily pooled. Emergency services have been deployed to assist with clearing debris and ensuring public safety. Meanwhile, efforts continue to evaluate the long-term impact of such extreme weather events on coastal infrastructure and tourism. As the storm continues its path, further updates are expected regarding its effects on the wider Adriatic region.