Serbia Convenes Crisis Headquarters to Address Heatwave and Fire Threats

Serbia's Republic Crisis Management Headquarters met to assess the current hydrological and meteorological situation, alongside the latest information on fires across the country. The body adopted additional measures aimed at preventing the consequences of unfavorable weather conditions, particularly the ongoing heatwave and fire risks.

Ivica Dačić, Serbia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Internal Affairs, who also commands the Headquarters, stated that extremely harmful consequences of the heatwave were prevented. Despite the continuation of high temperatures expected into the following week, the hydrological situation is not anticipated to worsen. The water level on the Danube is expected to rise slightly, which should positively impact the "Bogojevo" pumping station's functionality. Electricity and oil derivative supplies remain stable, even with high consumption rates.

Currently, nine fires are active across Serbia, with over 230 members of the Ministry of Internal Affairs' Sector for Emergency Situations and five helicopters engaged in firefighting efforts. A significant fire in the Deliblato Sands has spread to 700 hectares due to difficult terrain and strong winds. All available MUP resources, including a "Super Puma" helicopter recently returned from Spain, are focused on combating this blaze.

The Headquarters mandated all participating ministries, organizations, and public enterprises to analyze the impacts of the prolonged drought and unfavorable hydrological conditions. They are tasked with identifying problems and proposing systemic, long-term measures to reduce risks and enhance the resilience of critical infrastructure and essential systems against future extreme events. The Ministry of Defense and the Serbian Army were also recommended to provide support and resources to mitigate the effects of the drought and fire risks.

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We have prevented extremely harmful consequences of the heatwave.