Heavy snowstorms continue to batter the Balkans region

Heavy snowstorms have disrupted life for many countries in the Balkans.

Many countries including Bosnia, Croatia, Slovenia, Serbia, Kosovo, Montenegro and North Macedonia have been grappling with the challenges brought by the intense snowfall.

Northwestern and western Bosnia were hit hardest by the storm. Authorities say more than 200,000 homes were left without power there. Many homes also lost their access to heating and water services.

The intense snowfall, which is still ongoing is hampering relief efforts, prompting many local districts and regions to declare a state of emergency.

Some towns, like Dvar and Bosanski Petrovac in Bosnia were completely cut off from the outside world. The road connections with other cities were covered by more than 80 centimetres of snow.

Local businesses, schools and many other civilian facilities were forced to shut down. Cars on some roads have been stuck for more than 12-hours as regional governments scramble to clear the roads and respond to the crisis.

Similar issues are challenging Croatia. Traffic is difficult due to stormy winds on coastal roads and snow in Gorski Kotar, Lika, and Slavonia. Authorities there have imposed a ban on the movement of heavy vehicles.

In the central Dalmatian region, the bora wind has been weakening since Wednesday morning. This temporarily allowed ferry lines from Split to the islands that were interrupted to be restored. Experts however warn the weather is likely to deteriorate again with stronger winds expected to pick up from the early hours of Thursday.

Throughout the Balkans, authorities issued travel warnings as snow drifts forced the closure of major routes. Officials also advised citizens to stay home and avoid travel where possible.