SARAJEVO, Bosnia-Herzegovina

A fierce snowstorm has wreaked havoc across the Balkans, leaving tens of thousands of homes in Bosnia without electricity as heavy snow and winds create chaos in neighboring Croatia and Serbia.

As authorities scramble to manage the crisis, travel warnings have been issued throughout the region. Major roads have been closed due to dangerous snow drifts, leading to a ban on heavy vehicles and restrictions on traffic in affected areas. The storm has not only disrupted transportation but has also halted railway services in parts of Bosnia.

In a dramatic rescue operation early Tuesday, a mountain rescue team utilized skis to reach a man stranded in his car while en route to a hospital for life-saving dialysis in central Croatia. “We brought him there in time,” said rescuer Dario Cindric, highlighting the urgency of their mission.

Meanwhile, in Slovenia, the search for an injured Hungarian hiker who went missing in the Alps has been suspended due to the intense winds accompanying the storm. His female companion was rescued Monday and safely evacuated.

The impact of the snowstorm has been most severe in northwestern and western Bosnia. With widespread power outages, Bosnia's state electricity company reported an "extremely hard" situation in many areas, citing heavy, moist snow that has downed power lines and impeded access for repair crews. Additionally, some residents have been left without drinking water, exacerbating the crisis. Schools in various regions were forced to remain closed for a second consecutive day.

In the town of Drvar, local officials declared a state of emergency as efforts to clear snow continued. Municipal council president Jasna Pecanac expressed concern over the predicament, stating, “Many of our residents are stuck in the snow.” Reports indicate that dozens of vehicles were trapped in the snow for up to 10 hours overnight before being able to continue their journeys.

The snowstorm is a sobering reminder of the challenges faced by the Balkans during harsh winter conditions. Experts warn that climate change may be leading to more frequent and intense weather events, emphasizing the need for better preparedness for future storms.

As citizens grapple with the fallout of this winter emergency, the situation remains fluid, with authorities urging residents to stay informed and prioritize safety amidst the ongoing crisis.