A sudden weather change has severely impacted crucial transport links between inland Croatia and the Adriatic coast. A cold front has brought heavy snowfall, strong winds, and rough seas, prompting authorities to issue the highest red weather alert for the Rijeka and Gospić regions.
Key Roads to Croatian Coast Closed by Snow and Winds
On Thursday, major road routes used by freight traffic between the interior and coastal areas, including Kvarner, Istria, and Dalmatia, were closed due to adverse weather. Traffic officials reported that no routes for lorries with trailers or articulated trucks are currently available heading towards the coast or back inland.
Impact of Severe Weather Conditions
- Motorway and state roads in mountainous regions are experiencing rapid winter conditions.
- Heavy snowfall in Gorski Kotar and Lika has led to full winter driving conditions.
- Snow clearance operations are actively ongoing to ensure road safety.
Additionally, strong winds along the coast have compounded the disruptions. The bridge connecting the mainland to Krk island was temporarily closed due to dangerous gusts. Maritime transport has also been affected, with several ferry and passenger ship routes along the Adriatic suspended due to rough seas.
Emergency services in Istria have responded to over twenty incidents linked to the storm, primarily involving fallen trees obstructing roads and property damage from high winds. Despite these challenges, authorities confirm that the situation remains under control.
Travel Advisories
Travelers are urged to postpone unnecessary journeys and ensure that vehicles are equipped with winter gear. It is vital to monitor official traffic updates as weather conditions evolve.
Suspended Ferry and Ship Routes
The following routes are currently suspended:
- Ferry lines: Brestova – Porozina and Ploče – Trpanj
- Catamaran lines:
- Mali Lošinj – Cres – Rijeka
- Rijeka – Rab – Novalja
- Ubli – Korčula – Dubrovnik
- Split – Stari Grad
- Ubli – Vela Luka – Hvar – Split
- Ship lines:
- Zadar – Sali – Zaglav – Zadar
- Mali Lošinj – Unije – Susak
- Dubrovnik – Koločep – Lopud – Suđurađ
As officials work to manage the ongoing weather challenges, safety remains paramount for all travelers in the affected areas.
