Blistering heat today. The temperature will reach up to 39 degrees, and the entire country is on yellow alert. Sunny and very hot, with light to moderate cloud, daytime temperatures between 33 and 39 degrees and morning lows from 13 to 22. In Skopje, around 38 degrees are expected.

According to the forecast from the Hydrometeorological Service, in the afternoon some places may see isolated downpours and thunderstorms. The next two days stay sunny and very hot, with temperatures that in places could hit 40 degrees. Then the weather turns - storms with rain, thunder and strong wind signal the shift.

The authorities advise avoiding prolonged sun exposure during the hottest hours, drinking enough fluids, and paying special attention to the elderly, children and the chronically ill. Advice we hear every summer, and that every summer someone ignores until it's too late.

Heatwaves are no longer the exception - they are the new normal. And while the forecast says „take care of yourself“, it's worth asking whether the cities are ready for it: enough shade, enough water in public spaces, enough air conditioning in retirement homes and hospitals. The warming isn't knocking on the door - it's already inside. The only question is how well we're organised to endure it.