A powerful storm swept across parts of Slovenia on Tuesday, bringing large hail, strong winds, and heavy rain that damaged farmland and created hazardous driving conditions in several regions.
Communities near Dramlje and Pletovarje, close to the town of Slovenske Konjice, were among the hardest hit. Residents reported damage to property and agriculture after hailstones battered orchards and vineyards. Images shared online showed fields coated in ice, giving some areas the appearance of being covered by snow.
The severe weather also affected transportation. Drivers in parts of the Štajerska region reportedly stopped beneath overpasses and inside highway tunnels in an attempt to shield their vehicles from hail. Authorities warned that such actions can create dangerous conditions for other motorists.
Local road safety officials said an accident was reported inside one tunnel, according to preliminary information, and criticized motorists who stopped on the roadway instead of exiting the highway when it was safe to do so.
As the storm system continued moving southeast, it crossed toward northern Croatia, bringing unstable weather to several counties. No major damage had been reported there as of Tuesday afternoon.
Slovenia’s Environment Agency (ARSO) warned that additional showers and thunderstorms could develop through the evening before weather conditions gradually improve overnight. Forecasters also said patches of fog could form in some low lying inland areas after the storms move out.
Emergency officials continue to monitor conditions and are urging residents to stay informed about local weather alerts and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of severe weather.
