There is a widespread opinion that our planet is in the global warming phase. And it’s really evident summers are getting hotter and winters milder and shorter. We still remember the time when we had snow on the coastline in Croatia. There wouldn’t be much of it, but it would fall every year. The last time we had any serious snowfall in Dalmatia was more than 10 years ago. But when it comes to the highest temperature in Croatia, you’ll be surprised that the record still dates to the summer of 1981.
From then on, summers in Croatia got hotter and hotter, but this temperature was never surpassed. Each year, we are rewarded with a few heat waves in Croatia during which temperatures climb up to 40 °C, but even though the summers are getting hotter, somehow, we don’t believe that the highest temperature in Croatia will be taken down from the throne so soon.
The best way to escape the heat of the summer in Croatia is the sea
What Is the Highest Recorded Temperature in Croatia?
So, what’s that famous temperature people were scorching on in Croatia? The highest officially recorded temperature in Croatia was 42.8°C (109°F) in the city of Ploče , located on the Dalmatian coast , on August 4, 1981 . We’ll repeat the number – 42.8 °C. Can you imagine the heat? We have trouble with living even when the temperature gets to 35 °C nowadays, and we don’t want to think about what the highest recorded temperature in Croatia feels like.
Coastal areas in Croatia are usually associated with warm temperatures, but the hottest days tend to occur inland , particularly in the Slavonia and Dalmatian hinterland regions , where summer heat waves can be intense.
City of Ploče in southern Croatia – place with the highest temperature recorded in Croatia
How Hot Does It Get in Croatia?
Let’s leave the 1981. in the past where it belongs, and focus on how the summer temperatures in Croatia look like nowadays. This largely depends on the region of Croatia and inland regions tend to get warmer than the Croatian coast.
Summer Temperatures by Region
Dalmatian Coast (Split, Dubrovnik, Zadar, Istria) : Average summer highs range from 30-35°C (86-95°F) , but heatwaves can push temperatures above 38°C (100°F). There are usually a few heat waves each summer and they last for 2-3 days. These are also getting more and more intense with each year.
Zagreb and Inland Areas : Croatia’s capital sees temperatures between 28-33°C (82-91°F) in summer, with occasional peaks above 35°C (95°F).
Slavonia and Eastern Croatia : Often the hottest region of Croatia, with temperatures regularly reaching 35-40°C (95-104°F) in July and August.
Heatwaves in Croatia
In recent years, heatwaves in Croatia have become more frequent, especially along the coast and in inland areas. During peak summer months, July and August , it’s not uncommon for some places to experience several days in a row with temperatures above 40°C (104°F). Maybe the highest temperature in Croatia from 1981. won’t stay on the throne for so long after all.
How to Stay Cool in Croatia’s Summer Heat
When visiting Croatia during the hottest months, it’s very important to take care of your well-being because the sun and UV radiation can be very intense. Here are few general tips that will keep you cool when the temperatures are high:
Visit Beaches and Islands – The Adriatic Sea helps regulate temperatures, making it a great escape from inland heat.
Plan Outdoor Activities Early or Late – Avoid sightseeing in the middle of the day when the sun is strongest. It won’t be a good experience, trust us.
Stay Hydrated – Carry a water bottle at all times and drink plenty of fluids. You lose a lot of body fluids through sweating.
Seek Shade and Wear Light Clothing – Wear breathable fabrics and bring sunglasses and a hat .
Enjoy the Nightlife – Many cities come alive after sunset when temperatures drop to a more comfortable level.
Fun Facts About Croatia’s Climate
Summer’s heat in Croatia is a good thing. If you’re staying at sea or near any body of water in which you can toss yourself when things get hot. After all, heat is one of the main reasons tourism in Croatia exists after all. Here are some fun facts about the weather in Croatia.
Coastal vs. Inland Heat : The coastline of Croatia is cooler due to sea breezes, while inland areas can feel much hotter due to the lack of wind and higher humidity.
Dubrovnik’s Warm Winters : While summers are scorching, Dubrovnik remains one of Croatia’s mildest cities in winter, rarely dropping below 10°C (50°F).
Bura Winds : This famous cold wind can bring drastic temperature drops in winter but also provides relief from the summer heat.
Before You Venture Out Into the Summer Heat
Each summer in Croatia is characterized by the heat which can get pretty intense during the heatwaves. But the temperatures of past summers, which are among the hottest in the history of mankind, still haven’t surpassed the highest temperature in Croatia. With the trend of rising temperatures, and summers getting hotter and hotter, we believe that we won’t need to wait for long for a new temperature record in Croatia.
If you visit Croatia during the hot summer months, take care of yourself and wear protection. Sun protection.