ZAGREB—Croatia has experienced an unprecedented summer of record-breaking temperatures, leading to severe health impacts, increased wildfire incidents, and significant agricultural and marine disruptions.

According to Namibia Press Agency, data from the Croatian Meteorological and Hydrological Service (DHMZ) revealed that the air temperatures recorded in the first eight months of 2024 at all meteorological stations across Croatia surpassed average levels from the reference period of 1991 to 2020. This trend peaked in August, which became the hottest month ever recorded at 23 meteorological stations, and the hottest since 1961 at 16 others. The extreme conditions continued from July, with Dubrovnik recording a staggering 39.4 degrees Celsius, marking it as the city with the highest temperature in Croatia this year.

Branko Sopic, a prominent Croatian meteorologist, reported to Xinhua that the extreme heat contributed to approximately 500 more deaths this summer compared to previous years, predominantly affecting elderly populations. Additionally, the intense heat fueled a 26% increase in wildfires, with over 4,300 incidents recorded up to August 19. These fires have resulted in 11 deaths and injuries to 98 individuals, including 20 firefighters.

The agricultural sector, particularly in eastern Croatia’s Slavonia region, has also been severely hit. Sopic highlighted an ongoing drought that has left rivers like the Orljava dry and led to expected crop yield reductions of 30-40%. Despite government promises for compensation, the support is anticipated to fall short of the actual damages incurred by farmers.

Moreover, the persistent high temperatures have drastically increased sea temperatures, with Dubrovnik recording a sea temperature of 29.7 degrees Celsius in July—the highest since measurements began. Croatian oceanographer Ivica Vilibic expressed deep concern over these conditions, noting their devastating impact on marine ecosystems.