PHOTOS: Rare freshwater springs appear at Mljet National Park

Unusual whirlpools at Mljet National Park (Photo: Mljet National Park)

After an intense rainstorm, a rare natural phenomenon emerged in Croatia’s Mljet National Park today.

Unusual whirlpools, several metres in diameter, caused by underwater freshwater springs, appeared on the surface of the park’s Great Lake, Mljet National Park announced today on its Facebook page .

This is a very rare phenomenon in lakes – freshwater springs, known as vruljas, which emerged today due to the large amount of rainfall in a very short period of time.

(Photo: Mljet National Park)

In just a few morning hours, over 100 litres of rain per square metre fell, which is a fifth of Mljet’s annual rainfall.

For the same reason, damage occurred to the visitor infrastructure, which will be repaired in the coming days. Some priority tasks, such as the removal of fallen pine trees in the lake area, have already been completed.

As a result, Mljet National Park was closed this morning due to the storm, but by the afternoon, visitors were once again able to explore the Great and Small Lakes and visit St. Mary’s Island using the solar-powered boats.

For those looking for waterfalls in Mljet National Park, they can only be seen today in Polače.

(Photo: Mljet National Park)

About Mljet National Park

Mljet National Park, located on the island of Mljet in southern Croatia, is one of the country’s most treasured natural reserves.

Mljet

Known for its lush Mediterranean forests, crystal-clear lakes, and historic landmarks, the park covers the western third of the island. Its two saltwater lakes, Veliko Jezero (Great Lake) and Malo Jezero (Small Lake), are among its most famous features, offering visitors a peaceful retreat into nature.

The park is also home to a rich variety of wildlife, ancient ruins, and St. Mary’s Island, where a 12th-century Benedictine monastery stands.