Recent floods and frosts in Albania have caused extensive damage to agriculture, livestock, and infrastructure, with preliminary estimates suggesting total losses could reach €300 million.
Agricultural impact:
- Around 12,172 hectares of farmland affected, including cereals, forage crops, vegetables, and orchards.
- 5,791 farmers impacted, with losses spanning both small and large-scale producers.
- Estimated damage for farmers ranges €140–150 million, while the market value of lost production could reach €300 million.
- Key regions hit include Fier, Korçë, Berat, Shkodër, and Lezhë, with vegetables in greenhouses and fruit trees severely affected.
- Livestock losses include 5,551 animals affected due to floodwaters, lack of fodder, and exposure to cold.
- Beekeeping also impacted, with 147 hives damaged, resulting in economic losses for small producers.
Economic and export consequences:
- Floods are expected to reduce fruit and vegetable exports by 20–30%, translating to €21–63 million in lost export revenue.
- Disruptions in production and damaged infrastructure could drive up domestic food prices and increase costs for farmers and exporters.
Infrastructure and housing:
- At least 1,587 homes flooded, with thousands more affected, damaging furniture, equipment, and household structures.
- Roads and transport networks were heavily impacted, with blockages and partial collapses reported, highlighting vulnerabilities in flood management and urban planning.
Government response and challenges:
- Emergency funds currently cover less than 5% of estimated losses.
- Authorities, including Prime Minister Rama, have pledged compensation, but the Ministry of Agriculture is still updating total damage assessments.
- Experts stress the need for integrated solutions, including improved greenhouse infrastructure, early warning systems, and financial support for farmers to mitigate future climate-related risks.
