DHMZ has issued a red weather warning for Split, with potentially dangerous thunderstorms expected during the late afternoon and evening. The warning follows morning storms across the northern Adriatic and parts of Lika and northern Dalmatia, while another round of severe weather is forecast later in the day.
The storms may bring intense rainfall, hail and temporarily very strong or storm-force winds. Gusts could exceed 65 kilometres per hour, and the probability of thunderstorms is above 80 percent.
Heavy rainfall, flash floods, property damage, traffic disruption and power outages are all possible. People are advised to follow official warnings, avoid being outdoors while storms are passing and postpone any non-essential travel.
Orange warnings for Rijeka, Knin and Dubrovnik
An orange warning is in force for the Rijeka and Knin regions, where more intense thunderstorms are also possible during the afternoon.
The risk of severe weather will also increase in the far south of Croatia during the evening and overnight, with the orange warning for the Dubrovnik region remaining in effect until Wednesday morning.
Orange and yellow warnings have also been issued for the rest of the central and southern Adriatic, and particular caution is advised for activities at sea.
Civil Protection warns of possible flash floods
The Civil Protection Directorate of the Croatian Ministry of the Interior has urged residents to regularly follow official forecasts and warnings while the red weather warning for Split remains in force, allowing them to take timely steps to protect themselves and their property.
It has warned in particular that intense heavy rainfall may cause urban and flash flooding. People living in areas prone to torrents are advised to protect their property in advance and adjust their activities to the weather conditions.
Civil Protection also recommends following official guidance for thunderstorms, strong winds and flooding, as well as marine forecasts and current road conditions.
Red weather warning for Split brings increased wildfire risk
Due to very strong winds combined with high temperatures and severe weather, there will be an increased risk of wildfires in Split-Dalmatia County from the evening of 21 July until Friday, 24 July.
Police have urged residents not to light fires outdoors, burn garden waste, discard cigarette ends or other flammable objects, or park vehicles on dry grass during this period of increased risk.
Anyone who notices smoke, a fire or people lighting fires outdoors should immediately call 112, the fire service on 193 or the police on 192 and follow the instructions of the relevant authorities. Responsible behaviour can help reduce the risk of wildfires and protect people, property and the natural environment.
If you are in Split during the storm
If you are in Split when the storm arrives, stay indoors whenever possible and keep away from windows. Conditions can change quickly, so do not wait until the weather becomes severe before seeking shelter. Those staying in apartments or hotels should also close shutters or blinds and bring any loose outdoor items inside.
Avoid beaches, coastal promenades, hiking routes and boat trips, as strong winds, lightning and sudden waves may make these areas dangerous.
Before the storm, check the latest DHMZ warnings, secure loose items on balconies and terraces, and move vehicles away from trees and locations prone to flooding. Do not drive through flooded roads or underpasses, and never shelter beneath an isolated tree during a thunderstorm.
Keep your phone charged, follow instructions from local authorities and call 112 in an emergency.
Those who need to travel should check the latest road conditions before setting off, as storms may cause delays and additional disruption on some routes. Current traffic information is available in our latest Croatia road conditions report.
