Severe storm warning issued for Croatia as system moves from Italy

Croatia is bracing for a severe storm system that has already battered Italy's Adriatic coast, with meteorologists issuing the highest level of warning for the Split region. The Croatian Meteorological and Hydrological Service (DHMZ) has placed the area under a red alert, anticipating intense thunderstorms with heavy rainfall, hail, and strong winds.

The storm system first struck the Italian coast between Pesaro and Ancona, bringing torrential downpours, hail, and powerful gusts. Fano recorded 22.4 millimeters of rain in a short period, with rainfall intensity reaching an equivalent of 397 millimeters per hour at its peak. Wind speeds neared 60 kilometers per hour, and temperatures dropped sharply to 21 degrees Celsius. Pesaro also experienced disruptions, including power outages, due to hail and heavy rain.

Italian meteorologists predict the unstable weather will continue moving south along the Adriatic. Simultaneously, DHMZ's red alert for Split highlights the potential for extreme weather events, including up to 150 millimeters of rain per square meter in the approaching frontal system. Such rainfall levels are rare and could trigger flash floods and urban flooding.

Orange alerts are in effect for the Rijeka, Knin, and Dubrovnik regions, with unstable weather expected to persist through Wednesday. The Croatian Auto Club (HAK) has warned of wet and slippery roads, potential traffic disruptions, and restrictions for certain vehicles due to strong winds. Travelers are urged to verify road and sea traffic conditions before departing.