This summer is likely to bring higher temperatures and drought, after low rainfall in the winter and spring, according to meteorologists, pointing to a trend of more volatile climate change in Slovakia.
"Today no one can responsibly predict exactly where and when the drought will be, where and when there will be abrupt flooding. Meteorologists will be able to tell through changes in precipitation only a day or two in advance," explained Milan Lapin, head of the department of meteorology and climatology at Comenius University in Bratislava.
The last 12 years have seen three of the hottest summers in Slovakia since 1871, including last years. This summer is expected to have similar temperatures.
Hydrologist Michal Kravčík explained that the temperature increases may be due to the greenhouse effect.
Compiled by Conrad Toft from press reports.
The Slovak Spectator cannot vouch for the accuracy of the information presented in its Flash News postings.
3. Jun 2003 at 11:22