Bulgaria Basks in Warmest April in Years, But Hail Threatens Crops

Sofia, Bulgaria – April 2024 will be remembered for its sunshine and above-average temperatures, making it one of the warmest April in Bulgaria over the past 30 years, according to the country’s weather bureau.

Average monthly temperatures across Bulgaria ranged from 11 to 18 degrees Celsius, exceeding the norm by a comfortable 1 to 5 degrees Celsius. This warm spell marks the highest April temperatures since 2017, bringing a welcome change after a colder-than-usual winter.

The capital city, Sofia, experienced the warmth most intensely, with the highest recorded temperature reaching a balmy 29.5 degrees Celsius on April 15th. While most of the country enjoyed sunshine and pleasant weather, precipitation levels varied. 

Across Bulgaria, rainfall amounts ranged from 50% to 150% of the average, indicating some areas received more rain than usual while others remained relatively dry.

Despite the increased precipitation in some regions, April 2024 still saw less rain compared to recent April. This year’s figures mark the driest April since 2021, with the first half of the month experiencing particularly dry conditions.

However, the lack of rain wasn’t the only weather phenomenon impacting Bulgarian agriculture. Hailstorms struck parts of southern Bulgaria during the middle of the third ten-day period in April, causing damage to crops. 

The extent of the damage remains to be assessed, but it serves as a reminder of the ever-present risk posed by unpredictable weather events.

While April’s warmth brought sunshine and a pleasant change for many Bulgarians, the long-term implications of rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns remain a concern. 

Warmer rails could disrupt traditional planting cycles and lead to increased water stress for crops later in the growing season. The Bulgarian Weather Bureau is likely to continue monitoring these trends and provide updated information as the year progresses.

This article was created using automation and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members