Devastating flooding displaces thousands in Bosnia.
| Global Trade |
Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
Published:
5 min read
In May, heavy rainfall struck Bosnia and Herzegovina, leading to widespread flooding that caused substantial damage and displaced thousands of residents. The event stands as one of the most severe natural disasters in the region’s recent history.
The heavy rainfall began in early May, impacting areas across the country. Rivers overflowed, inundating towns, farmlands, and infrastructure. The Vrbas, Bosna, and Drina rivers surpassed their banks, leading to extensive flooding in both urban and rural zones. Swaths of the country were submerged, with entire communities cut off from essential services and supplies.
The impact was far-reaching. Hundreds of homes were swept away or severely damaged. Infrastructure, including roads and bridges, was compromised, hampering mobility and rescue operations. Schools, hospitals, and other public buildings were also affected, worsening the humanitarian situation.
Approximately 90,000 people were forced to evacuate their homes. Temporary shelters were established to house the displaced population. International aid was mobilized swiftly, with relief agencies providing necessary support in the form of food, medical aid, and shelter materials. The immediate focus was on rescue operations, followed by efforts to prevent outbreaks of waterborne diseases due to the flooded environment.
Agricultural lands were severely hit, resulting in significant losses of crops and livestock. This had long-term consequences on food security and local economies. Furthermore, the flooding unearthed landmines left from the Bosnian War, adding a dangerous element to the already critical situation.
The country appealed for international assistance, and many nations responded with humanitarian aid and financial support. Reconstruction and recovery efforts commenced, but the sheer scale of devastation posed a significant challenge. The flooding served as a stark reminder of the region's vulnerability to natural disasters and highlighted the urgent need for improved flood management and disaster preparedness measures.
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Primary Reference: The May 2014 Floods in Bosnia and Herzegovina

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