Albania experiences extreme summer heat and drought in 2026

Reports indicate that Albania experienced significantly warmer conditions during the summer of 2026. According to the Copernicus Climate Change Service, average air temperatures from June to August were approximately 1 to 2.5°C above the 1991-2020 average.

During this period, parts of the country reached the “very strong heat stress” category, where the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) measured perceived temperatures between 38°C and 46°C. This index accounts for temperature, humidity, wind, and solar radiation.

In addition to high temperatures, the summer saw varied precipitation patterns. August was notably drier, with parts of the Balkans, including Albania, experiencing record-low soil moisture and significant precipitation deficits. The report, titled ‘European Summer 2026: Records, Extremes and Context’, highlights these unusual and extended heat conditions across the continent.