A severe snowstorm has engulfed the Balkan region, causing significant disruptions across Bosnia-Herzegovina, Serbia, and Croatia, with power outages, traffic chaos, and school closures reported.
The storm, which struck on December 24, 2024, has left approximately 170,000 households without electricity, according to various utility providers. The state power company Elektroprivreda BiH stated, "Despite the efforts and continuous work to rectify failures, the situation with the power supply has worsened." This has resulted not only in dark homes but also difficulties accessing basic needs such as water, as many areas remain isolated.
Mayor Jasna Pecanac of Drvar, one of the hardest-hit areas, reported, "The situation is extreme. It is still snowing. People are stuck in the snow." Snowdrifts of up to two meters have blocked all access roads, leading to the declaration of a state of emergency. Residents describe their experiences of being trapped for hours, as snow removal efforts struggle to keep pace.
Describing their plight, one bus driver said, "It’s the first time something like this has happened to us on this road. The night services didn’t do anything, the police didn’t do their job... We’ve been waiting here for seven hours.” His comments reflect the fears and frustrations faced by many as they find themselves stranded, with little information about when they might be able to move again.
Elsewhere, cars sit immobilized on the highways, with one driver mentioning, "We waited for an hour and a half... then we passed through Bihac at 5.00 am, and after thirty minutes of driving, we’re stuck here again.” Such moments of frustration highlight the widespread impact of the storm upon daily travel and transport across the region.
The snowstorm has also taken its toll on local infrastructure. Train services have been completely halted, with railway lines impassable due to the heavy snowfall. Schools across the affected regions have remained closed for two consecutive days as authorities prioritize safety and recovery efforts.
Transport authorities put heavy vehicle travel restrictions on many roads due to the dangerous conditions, allowing only emergency vehicles to pass. Rescue teams have mobilized to assist those trapped, with reports of extreme weather conditions complicate their efforts. For example, rescuers working to save trapped hikers from the snowy slopes of the Alps encountered fierce winds and poor visibility, leading to suspended operations.
Jernej Lanišek, from the mountain rescue service, noted, "The wind gusts are so strong... the rescue teams cannot reach the hiker who is located in an inaccessible area." This case exemplifies the broader challenges faced by rescue personnel as they strive to reach those affected by the storm.
This winter weather outbreak has not only affected Bosnia-Herzegovina but has also generated significant problems across Serbia and Croatia. Heavy snowfall has prompted travel caution, with many roads becoming untraversable. Consequently, local authorities issued warnings to residents, advising them to stay indoors and prepare for potential power outages.
While authorities work to restore power and reopen roads, communities across the region remain fully aware of their precarious circumstances. The deep sense of isolation felt by many, coupled with the freezing temperatures, adds to the urgency of the situation. The continual snowfall forecasts contribute to heightening fears as the storm shows no signs of abatement.
The disaster has tested the resilience of the affected communities, who now rely on their local authorities and emergency services to guide them through this turbulent period. Amid these challenges, stories of resolve and resilience emerge as citizens come together to support those stranded by the snowstorm.
