Floods Ravage Bosnia: 5 Dead

Bosnia Floods Claim 5 Lives

“Engineering and rescue units and a helicopter were urgently engaged to provide urgent assistance...”

Flash floods and landslides in Bosnia and Herzegovina leave 5 dead, isolate Jablanica municipality; neighboring countries issue severe weather alerts.

Severe weather struck central and southern Bosnia on October 4, resulting in devastating flash floods and landslides. The disaster left five people dead and caused widespread destruction of roads and properties.

Bosnia and Herzegovina's three-member presidency made a significant decision on October 4, 2024, requesting military assistance to support the Jablanica region, which has been severely affected by recent floods. This move aims to address the devastating impact of the natural disaster and ensure the safety and well-being of the region's residents.

The presidency, comprising representatives from Bosnia and Herzegovina's three main ethnic groups - Bosniaks, Serbs, and Croats - has collectively agreed to seek external help to mitigate the crisis. This decision underscores the severity of the situation and the need for swift action to protect the affected communities.

Flash floods and landslides in Bosnia and Herzegovina have left a trail of destruction, with all roads to Jablanica currently obstructed, according to Majda Kovac. Authorities have swiftly responded by evacuating people from flood-affected areas, including 17 individuals from a mental health facility.

In Kiseljak, located about 20 km west of Sarajevo, the waters have largely receded as of midday on October 4, allowing residents to begin the cleanup process and assess the damage.

The severe weather has also prompted neighboring countries to take precautions. Croatia has issued a severe weather alert for its Adriatic coast and central regions. Montenegro and Serbia have also issued similar warnings, bracing for potential floods and landslides.

Below is a breakdown of the situation:

Affected Areas: Jablanica, Kiseljak, and surrounding municipalities in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Evacuation Efforts: Authorities have evacuated 17 individuals from a mental health facility and others from flood-affected areas

Damage Assessment: Residents in Kiseljak have begun cleaning up and evaluating damage

Regional Warnings: Croatia, Montenegro, and Serbia have issued severe weather alerts 

“Engineering and rescue units and a helicopter were urgently engaged to provide urgent assistance to civil authorities,” it said in a statement.

The municipality of Jablanica, located 43 miles southwest of Sarajevo, was severely affected, with all roads and railways rendered impassable due to flood damage. This has left the area completely isolated.

Majda Kovac, spokeswoman for the Bosniak-Croat civil protection office, confirmed the fatalities, stating: “According to unofficial information, five people lost their lives in the floods.”