Bosnia and Herzegovina braces for week-long heatwave as temperatures rise above seasonal average

According to the Federation Hydrometeorological Institute of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FHMZ), the weather will gradually stabilize after a period of unsettled conditions. The weekend is expected to bring mostly stable weather and rising temperatures, particularly on Sunday.

Clouds and some rainfall are forecast overnight from Sunday into Monday, initially affecting the northwestern Krajina region before spreading to central and eastern parts of the country by Monday morning. However, from Tuesday onwards, stable and warmer weather is expected to return.

Morning temperatures over the coming days will range between 13°C and 19°C across Bosnia and 17°C to 22°C in Herzegovina. Daytime highs are expected to reach 25°C to 31°C in Bosnia and 28°C to 33°C in Herzegovina.

Looking further ahead, FHMZ forecasts indicate that the beginning of August will bring a prolonged period of sunny and warmer-than-average weather.

Morning temperatures during the first week of August are expected to range from 17°C to 22°C in Bosnia, while Herzegovina could see lows of up to 24°C. Daytime temperatures are forecast to reach 31°C to 35°C in Bosnia, with local highs of up to 36°C in Herzegovina.

Temperatures to peak from July 29

Meteorologist Nedim Sladic said the region is also expected to enter a new heatwave.

"Since the upcoming period will meet the criterion of average daily air temperatures remaining at least five degrees above the seasonal average for five or more consecutive days, we can conclude that a new heatwave is approaching our region. According to the current forecast models, it should last for at least one week, while all weather signals point to above-average temperatures until August 5," Sladic said.

He added that only limited rainfall is expected overnight into Monday, after which the region is likely to experience a prolonged dry spell.

According to Sladic, maximum daytime temperatures are expected to climb sharply from July 29, ranging between 34°C and 41°C.

He explained that the hot air mass originates from North Africa, first affecting western and northwestern Europe before moving across central Europe and the Balkans.

Sladic noted that dry soil conditions will influence how the air mass behaves, meaning the heat is expected to be intense but with less humidity than might otherwise be expected.

At the same time, he warned that the lack of soil moisture will increase the risk of wildfires in the coming days and urged people to act responsibly in nature.

He also said sea temperatures are expected to continue rising, adding that by early August the Adriatic Sea could become unusually warm for swimming.

The meteorologist noted that the weather conditions are expected to be favourable for the upcoming Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series in Mostar, as well as the 460th Traditional Diving Competition from the city's iconic Old Bridge.

Health authorities advise people, particularly older adults, those with chronic illnesses and anyone working or spending extended periods outdoors, to avoid prolonged exposure during the hottest part of the day and stay well hydrated.