Macedonia experienced exceptionally strong winds this week, with weather officials reporting hurricane strength gusts across several parts of the country. Data from the Hydrometeorological Administration (UHMR) showed that wind speeds reached extreme levels, including a record breaking gust of 134 kilometers per hour in Štip. Authorities described the conditions as among the strongest wind events recorded in recent years, with several areas experiencing storm and hurricane force winds.
According to UHMR measurements from the national network of automatic weather stations, strong winds were recorded at multiple locations across the country. Out of 47 monitoring stations, storm force winds between 62 and 88 km/h were measured at 12 locations, while six stations recorded stronger winds between 88 and 102 km/h. Three stations registered hurricane level gusts exceeding 118 km/h, which are considered extremely rare for the region.
The strongest gust was recorded in Štip at 5 p.m., where wind speeds reached 134 km/h from a west northwest direction. Similar hurricane strength conditions were observed in other parts of the country, including Skopje, where a maximum gust of 130 km/h was measured at 4:10 p.m. The same wind speed was recorded in Novo Selo near Strumica later in the evening, with winds coming from the northwest.
In Kumanovo, the storm also caused significant disruption as strong winds affected the city and surrounding areas. Residents reported damage caused by the powerful gusts, including fallen trees, damaged structures, and difficulties for traffic and daily activities. Although the strongest official measurements were recorded in other parts of the country, the intensity of the storm in Kumanovo highlighted the wide impact of the extreme weather system across northern and central regions of Macedonia.
Meteorologists classify winds above 118 km/h as hurricane force, a level capable of causing significant damage to infrastructure, trees, vehicles, and property. While such events are uncommon in Macedonia, extreme weather patterns in recent years have increased concerns about the impact of stronger storms and changing climate conditions across the region.
The powerful winds were part of a broader period of unstable weather affecting the country, bringing dangerous conditions in several areas. Authorities have urged citizens to remain cautious during extreme weather events, particularly by avoiding unnecessary travel in exposed areas and securing objects that could be damaged or become dangerous during strong winds.
The latest storm highlights the increasing importance of weather monitoring and emergency preparedness as severe weather events become more frequent across Europe. Although the strongest gusts were recorded over a short period, the intensity of the winds serves as a reminder of the potential risks posed by extreme atmospheric conditions.
