Croatia issues red alert as record heatwave grips the nation

According to the National Hydrometeorological Institute, the highest level of weather alert was issued throughout Croatia on Friday due to extremely high temperatures.

Croatia and other countries in the Balkan region have been grappling with another heatwave since the beginning of the week. As the newspaper "Jutarnji list" reminded us, on Friday, for the first time in history, the whole country was placed under a red weather alert, warning of dangerous temperatures.

It is forecast that the temperature on this day may reach as high as 96 degrees Fahrenheit. The red weather alert will also be in effect on Saturday.

In connection with this, the Croatian Red Cross issued warnings, highlighting that symptoms of heat stroke may include headaches and dizziness, discomfort, agitation and confusion, redness, warm and dry skin, rapid pulse, raised body temperature above 104 degrees Fahrenheit, and even loss of consciousness.

Authorities appeal to citizens to avoid staying outdoors during the hottest parts of the day, from 10 AM to 5 PM. They also advise frequent water consumption and avoidance of physical exertion. They remind everyone not to leave children and animals alone outside.

The Croatian Institute of Public Health emphasised that high air temperatures can cause health problems, especially for vulnerable groups such as young children, people with chronic illnesses, the elderly, pregnant women, and those working outdoors. It is always recommended that people immediately seek help in case of dizziness, weakness, extreme thirst, or headache.