SARAJEVO, Jan. 23 (Xinhua) -- Authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) have issued flood warnings across multiple regions as heavy rainfall combined with snowmelt is expected to raise river levels in the coming days.
On Friday, the Adriatic Sea Basin Agency warned of an increased risk of flash floods and urban flooding. Forecasts indicate that intensified precipitation and additional snowmelt could cause rivers and streams in the Adriatic basin to overflow. Areas of particular concern include parts of southern BiH's floodplain, the Vriostica River, and the entire course of the Neretva River and its tributaries, said the agency.
The agency urged relevant institutions to closely monitor developments and act in accordance with the Flood Defense Operational Plan of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, while rescue and civil protection services were advised to exercise heightened caution.
Separately, a red weather alert has been issued for Herzegovina and central, southwestern and southeastern Bosnia, effective from 6:00 a.m. on Jan. 25 to 3:00 a.m. on Jan. 26. Forecast rainfall is expected to range from 45 to 85 liters per square meter, with locally higher amounts of up to 118 liters per square meter.
Authorities warned of possible flooding, disruptions to transport and utilities, and hazardous driving conditions, urging citizens to follow official guidance and take preventive measures to protect lives and property. ■