WeatherFanatics: Historic Flooding and Mudslides Across the Balkan Peninsula

Friday, May 16, 2014

Historic Flooding and Mudslides Across the Balkan Peninsula

By Eric Leister, Meteorologist

May 16,2014; 8:56PM,EDT

Days of heavy rainfall from a slow-moving storm has led to widespread flooding across parts of the Balkan Peninsula, in eastern Europe.
The heaviest rain was centered from Bosnia and Herzegovina eastward into Serbia and southern Romania through Thursday. Rainfall averaged 100-200 mm (4-8 inches) with local amounts up to 300 mm (12 inches).
The heavy rainfall triggered some of the worst flooding in recent decades. Flooded rivers have closed roads, cut off power and caused more than 200 mudslides across the region, according to the Associated Press.

Bosnian man views the scene after a landslide caused by flooding in the village of Topcic polje near Zenica, 120 km north of Sarajevo, Thursday, May 15, 2014. Heavy rainfall caused the river Bosna to flood surrounding areas causing power cuts and road blockades in some suburban and rural areas. (AP Photo/Amel Emric)
At least 2 people, including a firefighter, have died in the flooding.
In Belgrade, Serbia, around 225 mm (9 inches) of rain was reported in 48 hours, more than the normal rainfall for the city during the months of April, May and June combined.
At least 6,000 people have been forced to evacuate their homes in Serbia with many needing to be airlifted from their homes due to the flooding.
In Bosnia, the army has had to limit use of helicopters for evacuations due to rain reducing visibility.
The heaviest rainfall shifted across Austria and Poland Thursday night into Friday, where flooding and power outages were reported.
RELATED:
Bosnia and Herzegovina Weather Center
Belgrade, Serbia, Detailed Forecast
Serbia Weather Center
While periods of rain continued across parts of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as Serbia on Friday, the worst of the storm has ended for the region.
Flooding problems will continue due to the saturated ground and swollen rivers of the region into this weekend.
The storm will continue to spin over eastern Europe through Sunday but will significantly weaken by Friday night. As a result, rainfall will be generally scattered and light on Saturday and Sunday, aiding recovery efforts in the region.

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