Heat Wave Peak: Drava Runs Low, but Swimmers Won't Give Up
Temperatures hit 39.5°C, and the low water level of the Drava has become a gathering and cooling spot for hundreds of locals.
Temperatures hit 39.5°C, and the low water level of the Drava has become a gathering and cooling spot for hundreds of locals.
Croatia reached the peak of its heat wave today, August 5, 2026. According to data, at 3 PM the hottest spot was Valpovo, where a scorching 39.5 degrees Celsius was recorded, while Zagreb saw 38.7 degrees. Due to prolonged drought and high temperatures, many rivers are facing low water levels, and the Drava is no exception.
At the legendary Šoderica bathing area, we caught up with Igor Matekalo, a long-time swimmer who has witnessed the unusually long period of low water. "Every summer the water level drops like this. But all in all, it's fine. It's great for the kids, for swimming. As far as we're concerned, no problem. But this year is different," he told Danas.net.hr.
Matekalo points out that the river has been at low levels all summer long. "Usually it doesn't stay this low for this long. The water level is below normal for our area," he explained. According to him, the situation has persisted since April, with occasional fluctuations: "The water level stays put for a while, then rises by 50 centimeters, then drops again."
Despite the conditions, the Drava remains a refuge for many residents. Matekalo, who had been at the seaside the day before, has a clear opinion: "I have to say, the Drava is much better than the sea. The Drava is a lifesaver in this heat." Beyond swimming, the river also attracts anglers. Although the water level is low, Matekalo notes that it hasn't dramatically affected the fish population. "We can't say there haven't been any catches. It's not like there are fewer fish than in previous years, but they do take a bit longer to catch," he added, stressing that the situation "isn't too dramatic."
The Podravski list reports a similar scene of people seeking relief. Residents of Repaš and surrounding villages in the Molve municipality have been finding respite from the heat on the Drava for about ten days now. The spot beneath the Repaš Drava bridge has become a favorite gathering place precisely because of the low water level. According to the report, around 50 people gathered there on Sunday, and today, on Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day itself, the number exceeded 100. Those gathered swam, grilled, and socialized, turning the riverbed into an impromptu picnic area.
Today's heat peak and the gatherings on the Drava vividly illustrate how residents of continental Croatia are adapting to increasingly intense summer heat. While the sea isn't within everyone's reach, rivers like the Drava, even with low water levels, become crucial spots for cooling off and socializing during the hottest days.
