Osijek Melts at 39 Degrees, Drava at 28.3
A red alert for the heatwave is in effect across Croatia, with relief expected on Friday, August 7, when temperatures are forecast to drop toward 30 degrees.
A red alert for the heatwave is in effect across Croatia, with relief expected on Friday, August 7, when temperatures are forecast to drop toward 30 degrees.
Residents of Osijek experienced one of the toughest days of the current heatwave yesterday, August 5, 2026. The mercury soared to an unbearable 39 degrees Celsius, while the temperature of the Drava River, according to official data from the State Hydrometeorological Institute (DHMZ) measured at 5 PM, stood at 28.3 degrees.
Although the city "fell asleep" with a slightly more bearable 26 degrees, and by 1 AM the temperature had dropped to around 23, real relief did not arrive. The problem was humidity, which rose from about 20 percent during the day to over 55 percent by 2 AM, creating extremely difficult conditions for sleep and rest.
The DHMZ issued the highest level of heatwave warning for Wednesday, August 5. The red alert applies to all of Croatia, including Osijek and the entire Slavonia region. According to the forecast, sunny and very hot weather is expected to continue, with a weak to moderate southeast wind in the eastern part of the country.
Maximum daily air temperatures on the mainland will range from 34 to 39 degrees. The criteria for a red alert are strict: the maximum temperature must exceed 39°C, and the minimum must not fall below 20°C. "Take action; extremely high temperatures are expected. Protect yourself, children, and the elderly. Follow the advice given by the authorities. Possible breakdowns in certain infrastructures may occur," warns the DHMZ.
Thursday, August 6, will not bring any respite either. Another day under the red alert is expected, with similarly high temperatures and dangerous weather conditions. Citizens are advised to avoid being outdoors during the hottest part of the day, stay well hydrated, and look after the most vulnerable groups.
However, there is a light at the end of the tunnel on Friday, August 7. According to the seven-day meteogram and the DHMZ's heatwave table, this is when the long-awaited relief should arrive. Although a dramatic drop in temperatures or prolonged cooling is not expected, the shift from the 40-degree level down to around 30 degrees will be more than welcome. "We will come out of the red," the DHMZ says, announcing that the alert will no longer be in effect for the weekend.
