North Macedonia is experiencing severe flooding due to persistent heavy rains, prompting the evacuation of hundreds of residents. Reports indicate that more than 300 houses have been flooded, particularly affecting the city of Kičevo, located approximately 65 kilometers southwest of the capital, Skopje, where about 250 people were forced to evacuate. The Hydrometeorological Service has issued warnings about unusual water levels near rivers and streams, urging caution among residents.

Rescue operations are underway in Kičevo, where firefighters and various emergency service workers are actively clearing streets and pumping water out of buildings, including a local hospital. Amidst these efforts, teams have been working throughout the night in Tetovo, another city severely impacted by landslides resulting from the torrential rains. The Crisis Management Center has stated that the situation has slightly improved since the weekend, but more rain is expected according to meteorologists.

The floods have not only affected urban areas but have also submerged vast agricultural lands in the northern and western regions of the country. This poses potential long-term challenges for local agriculture and food security, leading to concerns among farmers and policymakers about the aftermath of such natural disasters. The ongoing situation underlines the need for effective disaster management and climate resilience strategies in North Macedonia.