Croatia Braces for Severe Heatwave: Temperatures to Hit 40C, Alerts Escalating

Croatia is preparing for a significant heatwave, with the peak expected from Saturday when temperatures in many parts of the country could soar to between 35 and 40 degrees Celsius. This follows a brief period of cooler weather that offered little respite from the summer heat.

“

First, we start with the Rijeka region, which will be red already on Thursday, and on Friday, the Dubrovnik region will join it. This heatwave will most likely last into the middle of next week, we will see how the situation develops. But definitely, the next week expects a period of elevated temperatures. Not only daytime but also nighttime which makes cooling difficult during the night.

Ivan Güttler, director of the Croatian Meteorological and Hydrological Service (DHMZ), warned that weather alerts would intensify, moving from yellow to orange and red. The Rijeka region is set to receive a red alert on Thursday, followed by the Dubrovnik region on Friday. Güttler indicated that this heatwave is likely to persist into the middle of next week, with elevated temperatures expected throughout the coming week, including high nighttime temperatures that hinder cooling.

Güttler also commented on global temperature trends, stating that while 2026 is not yet projected to be a record-breaking warm year globally, Croatia is almost certain to experience a warmer-than-average summer. He noted that seasonal forecasts had predicted this, so the current conditions were not surprising. He also reiterated essential advice for extreme heat: avoid direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day, drink plenty of fluids, and monitor official weather warnings.

“

We will certainly have a warmer-than-average summer behind us. This was announced in seasonal forecasts, so this did not surprise us. We had periods of slightly lower temperatures, but they were short-lived and brought only brief refreshment.

He specifically cautioned about the dangers of swimming in rivers and lakes during extreme heat, citing numerous drownings in Western Europe this summer. Güttler stressed the need for particular care not only at sea but also inland, in rivers and lakes. According to HRT forecasts, Croatia will be under the influence of an anticyclone on Thursday, with very warm air flowing from the south and southwest. Sunny and hot weather is expected nationwide, with morning temperatures ranging from 13 to 18 degrees Celsius, and 21 to 26 degrees along the coast. Daytime highs will be between 33 and 38 degrees Celsius.

“

We see a large number of lost lives this summer in Western Europe, due to a sudden jump into cold water or drowning. Special care is needed not only at sea but also on land, in rivers and lakes.