Meteorologists sound alarm, but then change comes: Scorching heat returns, here's when it will be worst

Meteorologists have issued warnings for Croatia as the country braces for a return of severe heatwaves starting next week. Following a brief respite from high temperatures and thunderstorms, temperatures are predicted to climb again, with mercury expected to surpass 32 degrees Celsius by the end of the week. Some forecasts suggest extreme heat, with temperatures potentially soaring above 35 degrees Celsius.

On Sunday, the Croatian Meteorological and Hydrological Service (DHMZ) issued a yellow Meteoalarm for most of the country due to thunderstorms, cautioning about potentially dangerous weather. While some regions were exempt from the warning, the forecast indicated variable weather, including rain, showers, and thunderstorms, particularly during the night and morning. The coast could experience strong winds accompanying storms. The day is expected to see gradual clearing, though localized heavy showers might persist, especially in inland Istria and Dalmatia.

Temperatures on Sunday were generally expected to range between 29 and 33 degrees Celsius. However, this cooling effect is anticipated to be short-lived. From Monday onwards, more stable and sunnier weather is predicted, with a gradual temperature increase. Inland areas are expected to be mostly sunny, with a possibility of local showers in the northwest and mountainous regions on Tuesday and Wednesday. The Adriatic coast will experience predominantly sunny and hot weather, with temperatures rising significantly by Wednesday.

Forecasts from HRT and Dnevnik Nove TV align with DHMZ's projections, indicating rising temperatures and hot conditions along the coast. The peak of the heatwave could arrive next weekend, with temperatures potentially exceeding 35 degrees Celsius in some areas. Meteorologists emphasize that these longer-term forecasts require further confirmation in the coming days, but current projections point to a significant heatwave affecting Croatia.