The summer has only just begun, but Serbia is already struggling under an intense heatwave, with temperatures approaching 40 degrees Celsius across much of the country. 

Meteorologists warn that even hotter days may follow, forcing many people to change their daily routines while placing growing pressure on emergency medical services.

The effects of the heat are visible everywhere. In Belgrade’s parks, overflowing rubbish bins filled with empty water bottles tell part of the story.

Many people seek refuge under trees, cool off at public fountains or avoid going outside during the hottest hours of the day.

While many residents can escape the heat, emergency medical teams cannot.

"The first team is listening," an emergency physician says over the radio before receiving the next dispatch: "Chirpanova 36, 4th floor, apartment 402. Chirpanova 36, 4th floor."

At the Emergency Medical Center in Novi Sad, dispatchers, doctors and ambulance crews have been responding to a sharp increase in emergency calls since the temperatures began climbing.

"Compared to the previous period, when temperatures were normal, we noticed an increase in calls and interventions of about 30%, which means that on a daily basis, during 24 hours, we have over 250 calls and over 120 interventions," said Dr Duška Laketa of the Emergency Medical Center in Novi Sad.

Medical staff say most patients seek help because of heat-related problems, including dehydration, exhaustion and cardiovascular complications.

The busiest period usually comes later in the afternoon, when prolonged exposure to high temperatures begins to take its toll.

Meteorologists describe the current conditions as only the first major heatwave of the season. Climate experts expect additional periods of extreme heat during the summer, making preparation increasingly important.

Residents are finding different ways to cope. Some remain indoors during the afternoon, while others spend time in parks or naturally shaded areas. Seventy-six-year-old Belgrade resident Miloš Laban prefers simple solutions.

"I, for example, prefer a good fan in the apartment rather than an air conditioner. Of course, when it is a must, the air conditioner is turned on. I use the air conditioner in those extreme cases when it really becomes unbearable and unhealthy," he said.

Health authorities advise people to drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous physical activity during the hottest hours and pay particular attention to elderly people, children and those suffering from chronic illnesses.

For many across Serbia, the daily forecast has become less about sunshine and more about one simple goal: finding shade, staying hydrated and safely getting through what could be another long, exceptionally hot summer.