Thousands attend funeral service in southern Bosnia to honor victims of devastating floods and landslides. Image: Canadian Press News
(The Post News)- Thousands of mourners gathered in southern Bosnia on Tuesday, October 15, to pay their respects to the victims of the devastating floods and landslides that hit the country earlier in the month. The funeral service, held outside Jablanica Mosque, honored 19 individuals from the village of Donja Jablanica who lost their lives in the disaster.
Husein Kavazovic, Grand Mufti of the Bosnian Islamic Community, led the funeral service. Addressing the mourners, Kavazovic said, “No words are necessary… Although the grief is deep and unbearable, we are aware that God decides about our lives and we are mortals.” Following the service, separate burials were held.
Residents of Donja Jablanica described hearing a thunderous roar before piles of rocks, mud, and water descended upon the village, demolishing several houses and claiming the lives of loved ones.
The disaster has highlighted the impact of human-caused climate change, which is increasing the intensity of rainfall due to warm air holding more moisture. The Balkans experienced record temperatures and drought this summer, drying out the land and hindering its ability to absorb floodwaters.
Neighboring countries and European nations have rallied to support Bosnia during this difficult time.
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