Snow and freezing temperatures to grip Croatia at start of 2026

Samobor

ZAGREB, 31 December 2025 – Croatia is set to welcome the early part of 2026 with snow and freezing temperatures, with winter conditions tightening their grip across much of the country.

The final day of 2025 began with exceptionally low temperatures, dropping well below zero in many regions. According to data from meteorological stations, the coldest conditions were recorded in mountainous areas. In Crni Lug near Risnjak National Park, temperatures fell to a biting -13.6°C, making it the coldest location in the country.

Across Lika and central Croatia, temperatures generally ranged between -7°C and -10°C, while Zagreb woke to -7°C, with similarly cold readings reported in Slavonia and eastern regions.

Conditions along the Adriatic coast were noticeably milder, though still cold by local standards. Morning temperatures ranged from 0°C to 5°C, accompanied by bura and north-westerly winds, adding a sharp chill to coastal areas.

Snow forecast for Zagreb and inland regions

Snow is forecast for Zagreb on Sunday, followed by a significant drop in temperatures next week. On Monday, the capital is expected to see daytime highs of around -3°C, with overnight lows plunging to -10°C.

As the week progresses, temperatures are forecast to fall even further, with highs around -5°C and lows reaching -13°C. Additional snowfall is also expected during the week.

Zagreb (Image: Yr.no)

Gorski Kotar will also see snow over the weekend, with freezing conditions intensifying next week. Temperatures there are forecast to struggle to reach -7°C during the day by Tuesday.

Delnice (Image: Yr.no)

Snow and ice in eastern Croatia

In Osijek and eastern Croatia, snow is expected over the weekend, followed by a prolonged cold spell. Daytime temperatures are forecast to range between -1°C and -7°C, while overnight lows could drop to -13°C in some areas.

Osijek (Image: Yr.no)

Cold and rain along the Dalmatian coast

The Dalmatian coast, including Split, will experience rain rather than snow, but temperatures will also fall. Highs next week are expected to remain in the low single digits, marking a notably cold start to the New Year even along the coast.

Split (Image: Yr.no)

With snow, ice and sub-zero temperatures forecast across much of the country, authorities are advising caution on the roads and for residents to prepare for severe winter conditions as Croatia steps into 2026.