EU sends search and rescue teams to support Bosnia and Herzegovina during deadly floods

Following a request for assistance from Bosnia and Herzegovina on 5 October, the EU has deployed search and rescue teams and sent emergency supplies to support first responders dealing with flash floods and landslides.

A total of 12 countries have offered assistance to Bosnia and Herzegovina via the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. Search and rescue teams from Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro and Serbia were already deployed over the weekend. They have been searching for missing persons and removing debris to help restore vital infrastructure. In addition, the EU has also mobilised emergency supplies such as shelter items from Albania, Hungary, Montenegro, Romania and Türkiye.

We are also providing high quality satellite images through our Copernicus satellite system in order to assist the local authorities in assessing the damage caused by the floods.

The Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarčič expressed gratitude for the numerous offers to Bosnia and Herzegovina: "Over the past days, Bosnia and Herzegovina has been battling devastating floods. But their first responders are not facing this deadly disaster alone. Through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, 12 countries have offered to send emergency assistance. Search and rescue teams from Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro, and Serbia are already on the ground, supporting the local crisis response. I thank all the countries that have stepped up to support Bosnia and Herzegovina. This is a strong expression of EU solidarity in a time of great need."