Serbia should prepare for a new heat wave – Here's when the scorching days are coming

On Wednesday, July 15, in the afternoon hours, local cloud development is expected across Serbia, with occasional short-lived rain showers or thunderstorms possible in some areas.

Winds will be mostly light and variable. The highest daily temperatures will range from 31 to 34 degrees Celsius, according to a statement from the State Hydrometeorological Institute of Serbia.

Meteorologist Nedeljko Todorović announced that temperatures will begin rising from midweek, while Friday and Saturday will bring a true summer heat wave, with temperatures reaching up to 37 degrees in some areas.

However, he stressed that there is no reason to panic and that such weather is typical for July.

Scorching days arrive at the end of the week

Todorović explained that temperatures will gradually increase in the coming days, but that extreme weather conditions such as those Serbia experienced at the end of June are not expected.

"Temperatures will rise slightly day by day in the coming days. Maximum daily values will be between 30 and 33, or 34 degrees. On Wednesday, and especially Thursday, there will be somewhat more afternoon cloud cover, and short-lived rain or weaker showers are possible in some places, primarily in central and southern parts of Serbia. In Belgrade, the probability of rain is very low," Todorović said.

He added that the hottest days will come toward the end of the working week, when a short heat wave is expected.

"Friday and Saturday will be even hotter. Over the next seven to eight days, those will be the two hottest days, when temperatures in some places will exceed 35 degrees, perhaps reaching 36 or 37. This is still lower than what we experienced at the end of June, so citizens should not fear exceptionally high temperatures. Summer heat is a normal part of this season," Todorović said.

Temperature drop possible after the heat

Although the end of the week will be very warm, Todorović announced that a change in weather could arrive as early as next weekend.

"After these high temperatures, from July 19 or 20—it is not yet completely certain which day exactly—a mild weather change is expected, with temperatures dropping by several degrees. Short-lived showers and thunderstorms are also possible. This is still a forecast six or seven days ahead, so there is a certain degree of uncertainty."

Speaking about forecasts predicting a large number of tropical heat waves this summer, Todorović said such estimates should be taken with caution.

"It is possible that stronger warming will occur again at the end of July, with temperatures of 35 to 37 degrees, but for now this is only an early indication, not a forecast I can fully stand behind. For a reliable forecast, the most accurate period is three to five days in advance," the meteorologist emphasized.