Albania is currently facing one of the most challenging weather situations of recent years, as heavy rainfall and intense snowfall have affected large parts of the country. From floods in the lowlands to snow-blocked mountain roads, the situation has required an immediate and coordinated response from Civil Emergency Groups, local authorities, and municipal services. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the latest developments, with a strong focus on the Albanian context and nationwide impact.
Civil Emergency Groups Begin Early-Morning Assessments
Civil Emergency Groups across Albania began field operations from the early hours of today to assess the damages caused by continuous rain and snowfall over the past few days. Teams are actively working on the ground in urban and rural areas to evaluate the situation, document damages, and identify families and residents affected by flooding, snow isolation, and infrastructure damage.
Authorities have confirmed that the assessment process is essential to initiate compensation procedures for affected citizens. Local government units are urging residents to cooperate fully with emergency teams, report damages accurately, and follow official instructions so that the compensation process can be completed as quickly and efficiently as possible.
Tirana: Municipal Police and Traffic Management on Alert
In Tirana, the Municipal Police, in close coordination with the Municipality of Tirana, have deployed services along several key road axes and problematic zones where snowfall and harsh weather conditions have created risks. Their primary mission is to monitor the situation in real time, manage traffic flow, and prevent road blockages.
Specialized vehicles have been positioned to clear snow and remove soil deposits caused by landslides. Authorities have emphasized that although many roads remain open, drivers should exercise caution, especially during early morning and late-night hours when temperatures drop significantly.
Vlora and the Rising Threat of the Vjosa River
In southern Albania, the situation in Vlora has become particularly concerning. The Vjosa River has once again overflowed near the Mifoli Bridge, with water levels reaching 7.45 meters. This has resulted in renewed flooding in surrounding areas.
Experts warn that the water level may rise further, potentially reaching between 8.5 and 9 meters in the coming hours. This scenario raises serious concerns for nearby agricultural land, residential zones, and infrastructure. Emergency services are closely monitoring the river and preparing for possible evacuations if conditions worsen.
Llogara Pass: Snow, Tourism, and Traffic Congestion
The snowfall in the tourist village of Llogara has attracted a large number of visitors from Vlora and other regions, eager to experience winter scenery. While the road segment has been cleared and treated with salt, the high concentration of vehicles has led to traffic congestion.
Authorities remind visitors that mountain tourism during extreme weather conditions carries risks and encourage responsible travel. Snowfall continued throughout last night and into the morning, but road conditions remain manageable thanks to ongoing maintenance efforts.
Blocked Roads and Isolated Communities Across Albania
Heavy snowfall has caused serious disruptions in several regions. The Librazhd–Peshkopi road axis has been blocked due to intense snow accumulation, leaving dozens of citizens stranded in the area known as “Shkalla e Lunikut.” Emergency services are working to reopen the road, but conditions remain challenging.
In the Gjirokastër region, continuous rainfall has affected not only daily life but also cultural heritage sites. Several stone buildings classified as “Cultural Monuments” have suffered architectural and structural damage, raising concerns about the preservation of Albania’s historical heritage.
Kruja Highlands and Flooding in Central Albania
In Fushë Krujë, snowfall in the Kruja Highlands has reached depths of up to 25 centimeters, blocking the Krujë–Qafështamë road and isolating several villages. At the same time, the Ishëm River has experienced a significant rise in water levels, flooding hundreds of hectares of agricultural land.
Two neighborhoods in the village of Murqinë are currently isolated, surrounded by water. Local authorities are monitoring the situation and coordinating assistance for affected residents.
Fier, Pogradec, and Shkodër: Floods and Snow Challenges
In Fier, the Seman and Shkumbin rivers have once again overflowed, submerging vast areas of farmland and increasing water presence in residential homes. Farmers are facing serious losses as floodwaters continue to spread.
In Pogradec, particularly in the administrative units of Dardhas, Trebinjë, and Velçan, snow depth has exceeded 20 centimeters. Movement is only possible with high-clearance vehicles and snow chains. Several rural roads, including Kalivaç–Dunicë and village roads in Proptisht, Slabinjë, Selishtë, and Laktesh, are currently impassable due to landslides.
Meanwhile, Shkodër remains relatively stable, although approximately 525 hectares of land are still flooded. In Obot, water is present near residential courtyards, and transportation is being carried out using military vehicles.
Northern Municipalities: Stable but Monitored
In the municipalities of Pukë and Fushë-Arrëz, snowfall continues at levels of 10–15 centimeters. Fortunately, no major problems have been reported so far, but authorities remain on alert should conditions change.
Conclusion: Nationwide Solidarity and Preparedness
Albania’s response to this severe weather emergency highlights the importance of coordination, preparedness, and community cooperation. As emergency teams continue assessments and authorities work to restore normalcy, citizens are urged to stay informed, follow safety guidelines, and support one another during this challenging period.