Split, a picturesque city located on the Dalmatian coast of Croatia, attracts thousands of tourists annually with its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich history. However, the summer weather in Split, while often ideal for vacationing, can also pose some risks to your vehicle. Here’s what you need to know about the potential dangers and how to protect your car from these elements and how to properly adapt to parking in Split.
Damage to your car from the scorching sun
Exposure to the prolonged, scorching sun during the hot Split summers can lead to a variety of problems for your car. The UV rays from the sun can cause the car’s paint to fade, peel or crack over time. Furthermore, the intense heat can weaken your car’s battery, damage the tires, cause the fluids in your vehicle to thicken or evaporate, and may lead to overheating.
The interior of the car isn’t spared either. High temperatures can lead to cracked upholstery, and can even melt the plastic if the exposure is prolonged. Electronics within the car, like your navigation system or stereo, can also malfunction when subjected to excessive heat.
Damage from summer storms
Split experiences the occasional summer storm, which brings not only rain but can also entail strong winds and hail. Both can cause substantial damage to your car. If the storm is predicted, the best advice is to find parking inside a building or a mall to prevent bigger problems.
Strong winds and flying debris
Strong winds, often accompanying summer storms, can be a hazard for vehicles. They can cause falling branches or flying debris that may lead to dents and scratches on your car’s body or broken windows. Furthermore, strong gusts of wind can impact the stability and control of your vehicle, especially during driving, making it potentially hazardous.
Hail storms and what they can do to your car
Hailstorms, though infrequent, do occur in Split and can significantly damage vehicles. While often short-lived, they can do great damage to your vehicle. The primary form of damage comes from hailstones, which are hard balls of ice varying in size, from as small as a pea to as large as a grapefruit.
When these hailstones descend at high speeds, they can cause significant damage to your car. The most noticeable impact is often the dents they leave on the bodywork. These can range from minor dimples to larger indentations, primarily affecting the hood, roof, and trunk due to their flat surfaces.
Hailstorms can also cause damage to your vehicle’s windshield and windows. Depending on the size of the hailstones and their velocity, they can crack or even shatter these glass surfaces. Since the hailstones in Dalmatia are known for destroying whole vineyards, this is not something to take lightly.
Other vulnerable parts include your vehicle’s side mirrors and headlights. Hail can crack or break these elements, compromising your safety when driving.
Moreover, hailstones can chip away at your car’s paintwork, leading to aesthetic damage and potential long-term corrosion issues.
How to protect your car?
Despite the weather threats, there are several steps you can take to protect your car in Split during the summer. For sun damage, consider investing in a car cover or a windshield sun protector. Regular maintenance, like checking your car’s fluid levels and tire pressure, can help prevent any heat-related breakdowns. Inside parking can help protect both the interior and exterior of your car and is the best possible way to stay careless about the vehicle. A usual daily ticket for parking is €20.
Conclusion
While summer in Split is typically filled with sunny, beach-perfect days, it’s essential to be aware of the potential damage the weather can do to your car. By taking precautionary measures and ensuring regular maintenance, you can help safeguard your vehicle and enjoy your summer worry-free.
FAQ
Does insurance usually cover damage from bad weather?
Yes, most comprehensive car insurance policies cover damage caused by weather-related events such as storms, hail, and floods. However, policies can vary, so it’s essential to check with your insurance provider to understand what’s covered.
How frequent are storms in Split during summer?
Storms in Split during the summer are less frequent compared to other seasons, but they do occur. The city is known to experience sudden, short bursts of rain, typically in the late afternoon or evening. More severe storms, including hail, are less common but possible, especially in late summer. Always keep an eye on the weather forecast, especially if your vehicle is exposed.
