Unusual heatwave to hit Croatia in March

Zadar

Croatia is set to experience an unusual temperature anomaly this March as the first heatwave of the year arrives earlier than usual.

Meteorologists warn that this is a rare phenomenon, with temperatures expected to rise significantly above average.

According to Severe Weather Europe, a powerful heat dome has formed over Europe, leading to unusually high temperatures across central, eastern, and northern parts of the continent, including the Balkans.

This system will prevent colder air from moving in, keeping conditions stable and warm.

Experts predict temperatures in Croatia will be 10 to 15 degrees higher than usual for this time of year.

The heatwave is expected to peak on Friday, with temperatures in eastern parts of the country reaching between 16°C and 19°C.

Meanwhile, countries like Romania, Moldova, and southern Ukraine could see temperatures rise to 20°C.

Scandinavia will also feel the impact of this heatwave, while Italy and the Mediterranean will remain on the edge of the high-pressure system, keeping their temperatures slightly lower.

February in Croatia was colder compared to last year, but only because 2024 saw exceptionally high temperatures.

Overall, the average monthly temperature was close to normal, with southern parts of the country recording temperatures 1–2°C above average.

No extreme temperature events were reported, and cities like Zagreb, Osijek, and Gospić experienced a cooler winter compared to recent years.

However, Rijeka, Split, and Dubrovnik had one of their warmest winters on record, ranking among the top five or six in history.

Fortunately, the heatwave will not last long. Over the weekend, cooler and more humid air from the west will start moving in, bringing temperatures back to normal levels.

While heat domes are common in the summer, their appearance in March is unusual and raises concerns about changing weather patterns. Meteorologists will continue monitoring the situation closely.