Devastating Floods Surge across Slovenia: A Comprehensive Report

Devastating Floods Surge across Slovenia: A Comprehensive Report

Unprecedented Deluge in Slovenia

In the wake of overnight rains, Slovenia is grappling with flooding in the Upper Soča region and the Sava Bohinjka tributaries. The Bohinj Lake has witnessed an alarming rise of almost two meters, a level strikingly similar to the August floods. Although thunderstorms are forecasted for the west and southwest, the Environmental Agency of the Republic of Slovenia (ARSO) does not anticipate significant weather disruptions.

ARSO Forewarns of Potential Flooding

ARSO had earlier issued warnings about potential flooding in small rivers and streams in the Gorenjska, Cerkljansko, and Škofjeloško hilly regions due to prolonged rainfall. This resulted in significant increases in the Savica, Mostnica, and smaller streams in the broader Bohinj area. Both the Savica and Mostnica rivers exhibited high flow rates within a short span of three hours, leading to spillages beyond the riverbanks.

Rising Water Levels Mirror Past Floods

Photos shared by a local resident show the swelled Bohinj Lake, which reportedly rose by almost two meters from yesterday afternoon to this morning. This rise is eerily similar to the water levels recorded during the August floods. The lake’s water level reached half a meter higher on 12 December 2017, further underscoring the severity of the current situation.

Continued Weather Disruptions Expected

Thunderstorms accompanied by showers are expected to persist today, tonight, and in the early part of the night in most parts of the country. This could potentially lead to overflows in some streams and smaller rivers, as well as flooding from rainfall and backwater. The risk of such incidents is higher in the southern half of Slovenia and in the west later in the afternoon and evening.

Water Levels to Stabilize by Monday

While rivers in the east and northeast are predicted to continue rising moderately tomorrow, water levels will recede elsewhere. By Monday, conditions across the country are expected to stabilize. Despite the likelihood of localized thunderstorms this afternoon and evening in the west and southwest, ARSO does not anticipate any significant disruptions.

Temperature Fluctuations Amid Flooding

Temperatures will range between 15 and 18 degrees Celsius, reaching up to 23 degrees Celsius on the coast today and tomorrow. Rain will temporarily halt on Sunday night, lasting longest in southeastern Slovenia. Rainfall is expected to resume from the east during the day on Sunday, with a few drops possible in the east on Monday. The new week will start with temperatures around 20 degrees Celsius, rising to around 25 degrees Celsius on Tuesday under sunny conditions.

Conclusion

Slovenia is currently grappling with severe flooding due to excessive rainfall, resulting in significant increases in water levels. Despite continued weather disruptions, the situation is predicted to stabilize by Monday. As the country navigates this crisis, it is evident that such extreme weather conditions can have devastating effects, highlighting the importance of proactive measures and efficient response strategies to mitigate their impact.