SARAJEVO, Oct. 6 (Xinhua) -- Rescue teams from around the world arrived in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) on Sunday to support local efforts in responding to catastrophic floods, following a request from BiH's Ministry of Security.
At least 19 people lost their lives in the central regions of BiH, with Jablanica, Konjic, and Fojnica being the hardest hit by flash floods caused by days of heavy rainfall.
Neighboring country Croatia was among the first to assist, with Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic announcing a financial aid of 10 million euros (about 11 million U.S. dollars) to assist BiH's flood relief efforts.
Croatian rescue teams have deployed to Jablanica, and Slovenia has already sent a search and rescue team with trained dogs. Serbian rescue units are expected to arrive later on Sunday. Additional aid is anticipated from Montenegro, North Macedonia, Poland, the Czech Republic, and Turkey.
According to the BiH Mountain Rescue Service Union, around 60 rescuers, including teams from BiH and Croatia, have been working tirelessly on the ground since early morning. Although water levels have stabilized, the situation remains critical in Jablanica and Konjic, where search efforts continue for those still missing.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced via social media platform "X" that the European Union has activated its civil protection mechanism, sending teams to assist in the rescue operations.
Darko Juka, a spokesperson for Herzegovina-Neretva Canton, confirmed that search operations are continuing for an estimated 10 to 15 missing individuals. He reported that road access has been partially restored to aid in rescue and relief operations, though certain areas remain restricted to emergency vehicles.
According to local media, in addition to international support, approximately 300 volunteers, mainly concentrated in Jablanica, are also working on the ground. Displaced residents are being housed in local hotels and shelters.
Authorities have urged citizens to stay away from affected areas. ■
