Bulgaria experienced one of its warmest Novembers in the past 15 years, with temperatures significantly above seasonal norms and widespread precipitation, the national meteorological bureau said in its latest monthly climate report.
According to preliminary data collected up to November 28, average monthly temperatures ranged between 7.5°C and 14°C across the country. These values exceeded the seasonal norm by 1.5°C to 4.5°C, highlighting an unusually mild month as autumn transitioned into winter.
The warmest point of the month was registered on November 2 in Veliko Turnovo, where thermometers climbed to 25.9°C. In contrast, the lowest minimum temperature recorded at a weather station in a settlement was –4.4°C in Chepelare on November 25. On the same day, Bulgaria’s highest peak, Musala, reported a frigid –12.0°C.
Sofia also saw notable temperature contrasts. The capital recorded its highest November value of 21.8°C on November 1, while the coldest point was –0.6°C on November 24. Meteorologists said the warm start to the month played a significant role in lifting the overall average.
Precipitation levels were around or above the climatic norm throughout the country, continuing a pattern of wetter conditions compared with the previous year. While November 2025 registered more rainfall than November 2024, it remained below the totals observed in November 2023.
Some regions saw particularly intense rainfall events. Sandanski recorded the highest 24-hour amount of precipitation — 75 millimetres — on November 22. These heavy rains contributed to short-term river level rises, though no major flooding was reported.
In Sofia, the month closed with a total of 63 millimetres of rain, equal to 165 per cent of the climatic norm for November. The capital’s heaviest daily rainfall, 18 millimetres, fell on November 19. Combined with fluctuating temperatures, these wet conditions shaped a noticeably unsettled weather pattern for much of the month.
The meteorological bureau noted several periods of sustained precipitation, specifically between November 6–8, 10–11, 19–22 and 27–28. These intervals triggered measurable increases in river levels across multiple regions, particularly in western and southern Bulgaria.
Climate experts say the warmer-than-usual conditions align with broader European trends observed throughout 2025. Many parts of the continent reported temperature anomalies in late autumn, driven by persistent warm air masses and shifting atmospheric circulation patterns.
Environmental specialists warn that such deviations may become increasingly common as climate variability intensifies. Warmer Novembers can delay seasonal transitions, affect agriculture, and increase the likelihood of extreme weather events in subsequent months.
While the meteorological bureau has yet to publish its full end-of-year analysis, early observations suggest 2025 may rank among Bulgaria’s warmest years on record. The coming winter season, experts caution, may also reflect these shifting climate dynamics, with forecasters monitoring for indications of reduced snowfall and more frequent temperature fluctuations.
For now, Bulgaria’s November climate data adds to a growing body of evidence showing a warming trend across the region. As the country prepares for winter, meteorologists emphasize the importance of continued monitoring, particularly in areas prone to flooding or abrupt weather changes.
Despite the anomalies, the bureau said conditions remained within manageable limits, with no significant weather-related disruptions reported nationwide. However, it underscored the need for long-term planning and adaptation strategies as Bulgaria faces more uncertain seasonal patterns in the years ahead.