Vlorë experienced an intense and unexpected weather event last night, as strong winds swept across several areas of the coastal city. The sudden gusts caused multiple incidents, from fallen trees to blocked roads, leaving residents alarmed and authorities on high alert. While Albania is accustomed to seasonal weather fluctuations, the severity of this event highlights once again the vulnerability of urban areas to natural forces. For many Albanians, especially those living near the coast, these moments raise important questions about safety, infrastructure, and preparedness.
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| In one of the main streets of eastern Vlora where a tree fell, November 18, 2025 |
A Century-Old Plane Tree Falls Near the Main Road
One of the most concerning incidents occurred near Vlorë’s main road, where a large, many-years-old plane tree collapsed due to the strong winds. The fall created an immediate danger for pedestrians and passing vehicles. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, but the potential risk was significant. Residents in the area expressed both shock and relief, noting that the tree had long been considered a landmark but had also shown signs of aging.
Local authorities quickly arrived on the scene, cutting the massive trunk and clearing the debris to restore safe passage. This incident serves as a reminder of the need for regular assessment of old trees in urban environments—something particularly relevant in Albanian cities where historic greenery often stands close to busy roads.
Pylli i Sodës: Uprooted Pines Block Roads for Hours
Further damages were reported in the well-known area of Pylli i Sodës, where several pine trees were uprooted entirely from the roots. The force of the wind was strong enough to overturn these tall trees, blocking key roads inside the forested area. For a few hours, movement was difficult, and some residents were unable to use the usual routes connecting neighborhoods and recreation areas.
Municipal teams intervened promptly by cutting branches, removing fallen pines, and reopening the blocked paths. Their work helped normalize circulation, but the event raised concerns about soil stability and the vulnerability of pines to extreme winds—especially in coastal areas like Vlorë that face frequent seasonal gusts.
Old Beach Area (Plazhi i Vjetër): Major Tree Fall Disrupts Traffic
A similar scene unfolded in Plazhi i Vjetër, where a large tree collapsed onto one side of the road, again posing risks for both pedestrians and drivers. The blockage caused temporary traffic disruption as public services worked to ensure safety and remove the fallen tree.
Witnesses described hearing a loud crack moments before the tree hit the pavement, emphasizing how sudden and unpredictable these events can be. Public services reacted quickly, clearing the road and restoring normal movement in the area.
No Flooding Reported — A Rare Positive Note
Despite the severity of the winds, authorities confirmed that there were no flooding issues across the city. This came as reassuring news to residents, especially considering Vlorë’s history with heavy rain and seasonal flooding. The lack of water-related damages eased the burden on emergency teams, allowing them to focus fully on debris removal and road clearance.
Situation Stabilized — Monitoring Continues
By early this morning, the overall situation in Vlorë had stabilized. Streets were mostly cleared, transportation resumed, and businesses opened normally. However, local structures continue to monitor the territory, ensuring no hidden risks or delayed damages emerge after the storm.
For Albanians in Vlorë and beyond, this event highlights the importance of preparedness and rapid response during extreme weather. With climate instability increasing across the region, communities must stay vigilant, and authorities must continue investing in preventive measures.