On Friday, May 22, 2026, the Republic Hydrometeorological Service (RHMZ) issued a warning for Serbia, forecasting unstable and potentially severe weather over the next 48 hours. The agency emphasized that central, eastern, and southeastern regions would face the highest risk of thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds, with localized heavy rainfall expected to peak in the afternoon. The alerts highlight the need for residents to stay vigilant as the weather pattern shifts dramatically.
Regional Impact and Alert Levels
RHMZ’s forecast underscores the urgency of the situation, particularly in central, eastern, and southeastern Serbia. The agency issued an orange alert, indicating a high probability of dangerous weather conditions. “Danas i sutra (22. i 23.05.) promenljivo i nestabilno, mestimično sa kišom, pljuskovima i grmljavinom, koji posle podne mogu biti lokalno izraženiji uz kratkotrajnu pojavu sugradice i grada i jak, kratkotrajno i olujni severni i severozapadni vetar i to sa većom verovatnoćom pojave u centralnoj, istočnoj i jugoistočnoj Srbiji,” the warning states, as reported by Danas.
The yellow alert, which signals a moderate risk, applies to the Banat, Belgrade, western Serbia, southwestern Serbia, Kosovo, and Metohija. These areas are expected to experience less severe but still notable weather disruptions, including scattered rain and thunderstorms. The RHMZ’s detailed breakdown of regional risks highlights the uneven distribution of potential impacts, with the eastern and central zones bearing the brunt of the storm systems.
Weather Forecast and Temperature Trends
The weather on May 22 is described as “promenljivo oblačno” (variable cloudiness), with the northern regions of Vojvodina experiencing mostly dry conditions and sunny intervals. However, the rest of the country will see unstable weather, including rain, thunderstorms, and hail, particularly in the afternoon. The wind, which will be strong and gusty, is expected to weaken in the evening. Temperatures will range from 20 to 27 degrees Celsius, with the highest readings in the central and eastern parts of the country.
For May 23, the forecast predicts “promenljivo oblačno i nestabilno” (variable and unstable clouds), with the northern part of Vojvodina remaining mostly dry. The southern and eastern regions, however, will face frequent rain, thunderstorms, and hail. The wind will remain strong, with temperatures cooling slightly to between 20 and 27 degrees Celsius. According to RTS, the weather is expected to stabilize by late May, with mostly sunny conditions and temperatures rising to 23–30 degrees Celsius.
Public Advisory and Safety Measures
RHMZ has urged residents to take precautions, particularly in areas under the orange alert. The agency noted that the combination of heavy rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds could lead to localized flooding, fallen trees, and power outages. “The most significant danger is expected in central, eastern, and southeastern Serbia, where localized hail and thunderstorms could cause material damage and pose risks to people and animals,” the report states, as cited by Blic.
Residents are advised to avoid unnecessary travel, secure outdoor objects, and stay informed through official channels. The RHMZ also emphasized the importance of monitoring the weather closely, as conditions can change rapidly. “The situation requires vigilance, especially in areas where the risk of severe weather is highest,” the agency warned.
Long-Term Outlook and Implications
Looking ahead, the weather is expected to gradually stabilize by the end of May. From May 24 onward, the forecast indicates mostly sunny conditions with temperatures rising to 23–30 degrees Celsius. However, the RHMZ cautions that isolated thunderstorms and rain showers may still occur, particularly in mountainous and hilly regions. “While the immediate risk of severe weather will decrease, the potential for short-term disruptions remains,” the agency noted in its update, as reported by Tanjug.
The prolonged instability has raised concerns about the impact on agriculture, transportation, and daily activities. Farmers in the affected regions are advised to protect crops from potential hail damage, while local authorities are preparing for possible emergency responses. The RHMZ’s continued monitoring and updates will be crucial in mitigating the effects of the weather changes.
