Severe Flooding Disrupts Life Across Kosovo

Recent heavy rainfall in Kosovo has led to significant flooding across several municipalities, particularly in the western region. The Hydrometeorological Institute of Kosovo (IHMK) reported that unprecedented rainfall has caused rivers and streams to overflow, resulting in disrupted electricity and water supplies, forced evacuations, and blocked roads. The municipality of Drenas has been notably affected, with the Drenica River overflowing and flooding numerous homes and businesses.

Balkan InsightVIDEO/ Alarming flooding situation in Kosovo as well, in Drenas citizens are evacuated by motorboatFloods in several cities in Kosovo cause water and electricity problemsBad weather also affects Kosovo, Pristina floods; water supply interrupted in some areas

The flooding has severely impacted infrastructure, with multiple roads closed and the Electricity Distribution Company (KEDS) cutting power in areas such as Drenas, Malisheva, and Rahovec due to water infiltration in substations. The Regional Water Supply Company "Mitrovica" has temporarily halted water supply in response to high turbidity levels in the Iber-Lepenc canal, affecting Fushë Kosovë, Drenas, Obiliq, and parts of Pristina. The National Institute of Public Health has advised residents to boil water from unprotected wells and to avoid consuming food that has come into contact with rainwater.

Bad weather also affects Kosovo, Pristina floods; water supply interrupted in some areas

Local authorities have mobilized emergency teams to address the flooding. In Drenas, residents have been evacuated using motorboats, while the Mayor of Skenderaj, Sami Lushtaku, reported that emergency teams have been active since the onset of the flooding. Municipalities such as Malisheva and Gjakova have urged citizens to limit movement due to hazardous conditions on the roads.

Floods in several cities in Kosovo cause water and electricity problems

Critics have pointed out that Kosovo has faced similar flooding issues in recent years, primarily due to material damage and illegal gravel extraction from river beds, which exacerbates flooding. The ongoing challenges highlight the need for improved flood management strategies and infrastructure resilience.

Floods in several cities in Kosovo cause water and electricity problems

The IHMK has warned that rainfall is expected to continue, potentially leading to further local flooding and communication issues. Municipalities have issued public safety advisories, urging residents to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel. The situation remains dynamic, with local governments actively responding to the evolving conditions.

Floods in several cities in Kosovo cause water and electricity problems

• “These rainfalls, with varying intervals and intensity, are expected to continue over the coming days, causing local flooding, problems in communication, sewage systems, as well as traffic difficulties,” — Hydrometeorological Institute of Kosovo

Floods in several cities in Kosovo cause water and electricity problems

• “Last night's rainfall, which continues today, has brought flooding to several areas of the Municipality of Skenderaj, causing difficulties for a number of families,” — Sami Lushtaku, Mayor of Skenderaj

Floods in several cities in Kosovo cause water and electricity problems

• “Many roads have been blocked by water as a result of the rising level of rivers and streams, making traffic difficult.” — Municipality of Malisheva

Floods in several cities in Kosovo cause water and electricity problems

The flooding in Kosovo underscores the vulnerabilities in the region's infrastructure and the need for effective disaster management. As authorities continue to respond to the immediate crisis, the long-term implications of such weather events on public safety and infrastructure resilience remain a pressing concern.

Bad weather also affects Kosovo, Pristina floods; water supply interrupted in some areas