Bulgaria: Adverse weather forecast across western and central regions through at least June 11

Event

Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast across much of western and central Bulgaria through at least June 11. The National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (NIMH) has issued yellow rainfall and thunderstorm warnings (the lowest level on a three-tier scale) for the following provinces June 9: Blagoevgrad, Kardzhali, Kyustendil, Montana, Pazardzhik, Pernik, Plovdiv, Smolyan, Sofia City, Sofia, Vidin, and Vratsa. Conditions are expected to become more severe across much of the affected area June 10 and NIMH has issued the following warnings:

• Red rainfall and thunderstorm warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Smolyan Province.

• Orange rainfall and thunderstorm warnings: Blagoevgrad, Gabrovo, Haskovo, Kardzhali, Kyustendil, Lovech, Montana, Pazardzhik, Pernik, Plovdiv, Sofia City, Sofia, Stara Zagora, and Vratsa provinces.

• Yellow rainfall and thunderstorm warnings: Pleven, Sliven, Veliko Tarnovo, Vidin, and Yambol provinces.

Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Strong winds might also pose a hazard to high-profile vehicles.

Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected area. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Bulgarian National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (NIMH)