Severe Rainstorms and Flooding Wreak Havoc in Bosnia, Claiming the Lives of at Least 16 People

KISELJAK, Bosnia-Herzegovina—A severe rainstorm struck Bosnia overnight Friday, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 16 lives due to floods and landslides in various towns and villages in central and southern parts of the country. The surging waters entered people’s homes as they slept, causing devastation.

Rescue services in the southern region reported that several individuals were missing and sought assistance from volunteers and the military as roads were impassable and houses were left without power.

Josip Kalem, a resident of Fojnica, recounted how his dog’s barking woke him up around 4 a.m., alerting him to the rising water levels. He and his wife were unable to leave their house as the water inundated their property, sweeping away their belongings and even their pet.

Another resident, Andja Milesic, shared how she awoke to find her bedroom and living areas flooded, describing the situation as “horrible.”

Darko Juka, a spokesperson for the local administration, confirmed that at least 14 people lost their lives in and around the town of Jablanica. Subsequently, two more bodies were discovered, raising concerns about the final death toll.

Juka expressed shock at the scale of the crisis, comparing it to the devastating impact of the country’s previous war, which left Bosnia in ruins.

Defense Minister Zukan Helez stated that the military was mobilized to assist in rescue efforts, with reports of casualties continuing to emerge.

Helez emphasized the importance of prioritizing the rescue of individuals trapped under landslides in their homes, with tragic incidents such as a pregnant woman losing her baby after being rescued from the floods and being hospitalized in critical condition.

Authorities warned residents to stay on upper floors to ensure their safety as the floodwaters continued to rise, leading to the submerging of villages and towns.

Heavy rains and strong winds also impacted neighboring Croatia and Montenegro, causing road closures, power outages, and flooding in various areas.