Slovenia drought persists despite heavy overnight rainfall

Recent overnight rainfall across Slovenia, ranging between 30 and 70 millimeters, has moistened the surface layer of the soil but has not provided significant relief from ongoing drought conditions. The heaviest precipitation was recorded in central Slovenia and the northwest, with Ljubljana receiving between 60 and 70 millimeters.

Agrometeorologist Andreja Sušnik from the Environmental Agency (ARSO) warned that the intensity of these storms, combined with existing heat and drought, could potentially cause further damage by compacting the soil. While the rain may improve the water balance if such patterns continue, it is unlikely to benefit agricultural crops like corn that are already permanently dried out.

ARSO reports significant water deficits across the country. Exceptional drought conditions persist in regions including Pomurje, Podravje, Koroška, Savinjska, Gorenjska, Ljubljana and its surroundings, Spodnje Posavje, Dolenjska, Bela Krajina, Kočevsko, Notranjska, and Goriška. In some areas, such as Dolenjska and Ljubljana, the water deficit exceeds 100 millimeters.