Early snowfall in Balkan mountain regions

High-altitude regions in the Balkans have begun experiencing early winter conditions. In Slovenia, snow has accumulated in the Kamnik-Savinja Alps and on Kredarica, with meteorologists predicting further cooling that could lower the snow line into the Julian Alps.

By late October, winter weather expanded to include Popova Shapka in North Macedonia and Kopaonik in Serbia. In North Macedonia, snow cover has developed on the peaks of Shar Planina and formed a layer on Popova Shapka, though temperatures at Popova Shapka have reached a maximum of 2 degrees Celsius, leaving lower areas under typical autumn conditions.

In Serbia, snowfall has been recorded on both the Golija and Kopaonik mountains. On Kopaonik, temperatures have dropped to approximately minus 2 degrees Celsius. The combination of low temperatures, fog, and snow has created challenging travel conditions. Authorities have advised drivers to use winter equipment and exercise caution on mountain passes, noting practical difficulties such as icy, slippery roads and reduced visibility, particularly on the route from Brzeće toward the summit.

In Albania, a significant temperature drop has brought the first snowfall of the season to northern high mountain areas. Snow has covered parts of the Kukës county, including the Gjalia mountains at an altitude of 1,530 meters and villages such as Shishtavec. In the Tropojë region, snowfall was also recorded in the high peaks of Valbona. While mountain areas experienced sub-zero temperatures and snow, lower elevations including Kukës, Krumë, and Bajram Curri saw rain and fog.