Heavy flooding and landslides in Bosnia and Herzegovina have resulted in the deaths of at least 15 people, with many others missing following a severe rainstorm that ravaged the country overnight. As a result of the devastation, the road and railway connecting the capital city of Sarajevo with Mostar and the sea have become inaccessible, with entire sections being swept away or blocked by debris. Authorities have called in the army and local volunteers to assist with rescue operations, with Bosnia’s Defence Minister stating that troops are engaged in rescue and recovery missions, prioritizing saving those who are alive and trapped in landslides.
The majority of the reported casualties, 14 in total, occurred in Jablanica, with an additional fatality in the town of Fojnica near Kiseljak. Other areas affected by the flooding include Konjic, Kreševo, and Buturović polje. The situation in Jablanica is particularly dire, as the town has become completely inaccessible due to roads and train lines being swept away or blocked by debris. Aerial drone footage has shown villages and towns submerged underwater, while social media videos depict scenes of muddy torrents and damaged roads. Reports have also indicated that a significant portion of the road linking Sarajevo to Mostar and the Adriatic coast has been swept into the Neretva river, along with a railway line, by a massive landslide.
In response to the disaster, authorities have urged residents to remain on the upper floors of their homes and avoid venturing out onto flooded streets. The heavy rains and strong winds have also affected neighbouring Croatia, where several roads have been closed, and the capital city of Zagreb is bracing for the possibility of the Sava River overflowing its banks. Additionally, Montenegro, Bosnia’s southeastern neighbour, has experienced torrential rains that have led to the isolation of some villages and the flooding of roads and homes. The civic protection service has warned of the dangers posed by the rising waters and landslides, with reports of domestic animals and cars being swept away by the surging floods.
As the search and rescue efforts continue in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the full extent of the damage caused by the flooding and landslides is being assessed. With many people still missing and numerous injured individuals requiring assistance, the situation remains critical. The involvement of the army and local volunteers in rescue operations highlights the collaborative effort to save lives and provide relief to those affected by the natural disaster. The devastation in the region serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of severe weather events and the importance of preparedness and response measures to mitigate the impact on communities.
