HNK Government Confirms 14 Deaths, Search Underway for Missing: Situation is Critical, All Available Forces Deployed

(Patria) - At the premises of the Herzegovina-Neretva Canton Government, Head of the Public Relations Department Darko Juka confirmed that 14 deaths have been confirmed so far, while there are many reports from the field regarding missing persons.

"We don't know the exact number yet. I don't recall a crisis like this since the war; the scale of this chaotic situation is terrifying," Juka said.

He warned of bad forecasts for the upcoming weekend: "The situation remains very serious. People need to understand the gravity of the situation."

Juka stated that the services managed to reach Jablanica.

"At this moment, the most critical situation is in Donja Jablanica, which is completely cut off from the world," Juka said.

He added that "roads have collapsed, as well as several bridges over the Drežanka river."

The wider area of Konjic is also isolated, and those affected are being evacuated by boats used by members of the Armed Forces of BiH, Civil Protection, and local clubs.

"All available forces are on the ground - Civil Protection, police, Mountain Rescue Service, and the Red Cross, while neighboring cantons are offering assistance," Juka said.

Juka appealed to citizens not to head towards Jablanica and Konjic on their own initiative from any direction.

"Police checkpoints have been set up at Salakovac to control the flow of vehicles and ensure the safety of citizens," he stated.

He emphasized that "there were two critical situations, including a pregnant woman; both were evacuated to Južni logor in Mostar."

"There are no roads in one section near Komadinovo vrelo, and three kilometers of road near Rama have also collapsed," Juka explained.

Electric power companies (EPBiH and EP HZHB) are monitoring the situation to prevent possible overloading of the power system.