Flash floods and landslides have devastated parts of Bosnia, resulting in at least 16 deaths and numerous injuries. The town of Jablanica was hit particularly hard, with heavy rains causing sudden floods that broke into homes while residents were sleeping. The surging waters also triggered landslides that covered villages in mud and debris, cutting off entire areas. In Donja Jablanica, a nearby quarry collapsed, burying houses and leading to multiple fatalities. One resident, Alka Gusic, lost her brother and his entire family in the disaster, while her own son was hospitalized. The devastation has left many residents in shock and mourning.
Authorities have confirmed that at least 16 people have died, including a baby, with 10 individuals still missing and dozens more injured. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with teams working to remove debris and search for any remaining survivors. The town of Jablanica has been sealed off to outsiders as rescuers continue their operations. Some houses were submerged up to their roofs, and as the water recedes, the extent of the damage becomes more apparent. Near Konjic, another town affected by the storm, some villages remain cut off, with roads and bridges destroyed, leaving communities isolated.
Due to the severe damage caused by the floods and landslides, local elections scheduled for Sunday in the affected municipalities have been postponed. The effects of human-caused climate change are believed to have intensified the rainfall, as warm air can hold more moisture, leading to extreme weather events like this one. The Balkans have experienced record temperatures this summer, contributing to drought conditions that have made the land less able to absorb floodwaters. While flooding was also reported in neighboring countries like Croatia and Montenegro, the damage was less severe with no fatalities reported. The situation in Bosnia serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of communities to the impacts of climate change.
As rescue efforts continue and the full extent of the damage is assessed, the people of Bosnia are left grappling with the aftermath of this natural disaster. The loss of life, destruction of homes, and displacement of entire communities have left many in mourning and facing an uncertain future. The resilience of the affected residents, combined with the ongoing support of rescue teams and humanitarian organizations, offers hope for recovery and rebuilding in the days ahead. The international community stands ready to assist in any way possible, as Bosnia and its people work to recover from this devastating event and build a more resilient future in the face of climate change.
