Slovenia Grows More Tropical as Rateče Loses Coldest Status

Slovenia is becoming noticeably more tropical, with recent heatwaves significantly impacting even traditionally cooler regions. Last June already set a record for warmth, and this year's June has surpassed it, deviating 3.7 degrees Celsius above the 1991-2020 average. This is a notable increase from the previous record set in June 2003.

The trend is expected to continue, as long-term forecast models, including the European ECMWF, indicate a high likelihood of above-average warm air masses persisting through July. This suggests that the hot weather gripping the country is not a short-term anomaly but a developing pattern.

Even areas usually known for cooler temperatures are experiencing a dramatic rise in hot days. Rateče, typically among Slovenia's coldest locations, recorded seven days with maximum temperatures reaching or exceeding 30°C last June. This is a significant shift compared to the period between 1961 and 1990, when such hot days were far less frequent.