Sarajevo Canton Government held an urgent session on Friday to address the situation with devastating floods that hit the canton area last night and throughout this day, urging the citizens to stay at homes and reduce their outdoor activities to minimum.

“Situation is serious but under control,” said Sarajevo Canton Prime Minister Edin Forto, adressing the media after the session.

The Government tasked the Civil Protection Agency to activate the flood protection measures on the whole canton's territory and to deploy its staff to the affected area.

All other relevant institions, including the health ministry, municipal civil protection agencies, and public utility services, were tasked to put at disposal their available capacities for keeping the situation under control.

“One of the biggest challenges is the traffic regulation, and the police have been acting promptly since early morning,” said Sarajevo Canton Interior Minister Adnan Katica.

The flooding caused by heavy rain hit the settlements on the outskirts of Sarajevo, threatening homes and causing material damage.