Severe Flooding in Leshnjë, Korçë: Osum River Breaks Its Banks, Damaging Homes and Livestock

 In recent days, heavy rainfall in southeastern Albania has caused the Osum River to overflow in the village of Leshnjë, located in the Korçë Municipality. The flooding has led to significant damage to homes, agricultural land, and livestock, creating a severe humanitarian and economic impact for the local population.

River water pouring into the sheep hall in Leshnje

Residents report that water has rapidly entered houses and barns, putting both human lives and animals at risk. Adriatik Ropi, a local farmer, shared that the floodwaters breached his barn, endangering the shepherd working there and resulting in the death of around 50 sheep. This incident highlights the vulnerability of livestock-dependent communities to extreme weather events.

Other affected residents, including Robert Ropi and Perparim Nako, reported serious damage not only to their homes but also to their agricultural and livestock facilities. For many families in Leshnjë, which is part of the Vithkuq administrative unit, livestock farming is the main source of income. The destruction of animals and farming infrastructure represents a severe setback for their livelihoods.

Local authorities are on the ground assessing the damage and providing assistance to affected families. Emergency response teams are working to ensure that residents are safe and that further risks to life and property are minimized. Temporary shelters and relief support are being organized for those whose homes have been affected by the flooding.

Experts warn that with the increasing frequency of extreme weather events in Albania, small villages like Leshnjë are particularly at risk. Flood prevention infrastructure in rural areas is often limited, and families heavily rely on their own resources to recover from such natural disasters.

The flooding of the Osum River also serves as a reminder of the broader challenges faced by communities in southeastern Albania. Heavy rains not only disrupt daily life but also have long-term consequences for the local economy, especially in areas heavily dependent on agriculture and livestock. In addition to immediate relief, experts suggest the need for improved flood management systems and early warning mechanisms to protect vulnerable communities in the future.

Authorities are coordinating with local residents to ensure that all affected areas are accessible and that necessary support, including food, medical aid, and veterinary services, reaches those in need. While immediate relief is a priority, long-term planning is essential to mitigate the impact of future floods in regions like Leshnjë.

The resilience of the people of Leshnjë is evident, as communities come together to support one another during this crisis. However, the recent flood serves as a stark reminder of the growing risks posed by climate change and the urgent need for investment in disaster preparedness and response infrastructure in Albania.

Residents are advised to remain vigilant as the rainy season continues and to follow guidance from local authorities to ensure safety. Monitoring river levels and preparing emergency plans are critical steps in minimizing risks for families living in flood-prone areas.