Fears that Macedonia's Ohrid Lake Might Flood

The heavy waves that have been pounding the banks of Lake Ohrid flooded parts of the lakefront area yesterday and pulled bits of land into the lake.

The emergency services began placing sand bag barriers at several critical points along the lakefront as the water level reached a critical level, measuring 24 cm above the maximum.

The river Crn Drim, which is used to divert water from the lake when its levels rise, is also threatening to flood several areas in the country.

Last week local residents raised the alarm after the water level of the lake rose some 14 cm above the maximum and flooded many houses in the nearby villages.

During the past few days the water level has continued to rise steadily, but the sunny and calm weather has meant there has not yet been any significant flooding.

The authorities last week attempted to calm the local population, saying they are on constant alert and ready to intervene.

But the latest weather forecast predicts rain showers in the coming days and many fear this could cause the lake to spill over its banks.

The town of Ohrid and its surroundings are by far the biggest tourist destinations in Macedonia.