Water Levels of Vjosa River Begin to Recede, Authorities Say Situation Under Control

Water levels of the Vjosa River began to recede by midday Sunday, according to civil emergency authorities, after the river overflowed its banks near the Mifoli bridge late Saturday, flooding the old bazaar area below the bridge.

Authorities said that in the rest of the affected territory the situation is under control.

Officials also reported a decrease in water levels in the Memaliaj area, which specialists expect to be reflected downstream near Novosela. Work continues to reinforce river defenses in order to prevent further flooding.

The situation remains under close monitoring, while residents have been urged to stay alert and avoid movement near the riverbanks.

Meanwhile, in Novosela, civil emergency teams began assessing flood-related damage on Sunday. Working groups have been deployed to initiate compensation procedures for affected families.

Local authorities called on residents to cooperate so the compensation process can be completed as quickly as possible.