The first snowfall of the season has graced Bulgaria’s Vitosha Mountain, covering the Aleko hut in a blanket of white, according to a report by bTV.
Situated in the “Maslovitsa” area at an altitude of 1,840 meters above sea level, the hut is now surrounded by a winter wonderland. Weather conditions in the country remain diverse, with forecasts predicting more snowfall in mountainous regions above 2,000 meters.
As Vitosha turns white, the eastern half of Bulgaria, along with northern and central regions, is under orange and yellow weather warnings for strong winds and thunderstorms. Authorities have urged caution, particularly in areas prone to hazardous weather conditions.
National Weather Warnings and Temperature Overview
The National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (NIMH) has issued alerts across the country for severe weather, primarily focusing on the eastern parts.
The orange and yellow warnings signify the potential for dangerous weather, with orange indicating a higher likelihood of severe wind and storms.
Today, temperatures across Bulgaria are forecasted to vary significantly, with maximums ranging from 11 to 20 degrees Celsius. In the capital Sofia, residents can expect cooler conditions, with temperatures hovering around 13-14 degrees.
Meanwhile, Plovdiv may see a high of 19 degrees, offering relatively warmer weather compared to other parts of the country. Coastal Varna is forecasted to experience milder temperatures around 15 degrees, with possible strong winds impacting the area.
Mountain Weather and Ski Season Anticipation
In the mountainous regions, snowfall is expected to continue at altitudes above 2,000 meters, contributing to early winter conditions in Bulgaria’s higher terrain.
This early snow could mark the start of the ski season in Vitosha, a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Local authorities are preparing for increased activity on the slopes, with more snowfall anticipated in the coming days.
The Aleko hut, a well-known stop for hikers and tourists, now sits under a fresh layer of snow. This scenic area on Vitosha Mountain is particularly famous for its winter sports and picturesque landscapes during the colder months.
Storms and Winds Grip Eastern Bulgaria
While Vitosha experiences the serene onset of winter, eastern Bulgaria is bracing for rough weather.
The issued weather warnings signal potentially dangerous wind speeds and thunderstorms in these regions. Residents have been advised to take precautions and stay informed as the storms develop throughout the day.
However, despite the ominous weather in the east, Western Bulgaria, including Sofia, is expected to see some improvement.
The cloud cover over this part of the country is forecasted to gradually diminish, offering clearer skies by midnight. Rainfall is also expected to taper off, with the strong winds subsiding by the end of the day.
Looking Ahead: Brighter Skies Tomorrow
Bulgaria’s weather conditions are predicted to improve as the week progresses. Starting tomorrow, more sunshine is expected across the country, along with a gradual increase in temperatures.
This shift in the weather will provide relief after the storm warnings and signal a return to more favorable conditions for the rest of the week.
Residents and visitors alike are advised to remain cautious, particularly in areas affected by the weather warnings.
As Bulgaria navigates these varied weather patterns, preparations for winter sports and outdoor activities in Vitosha and other mountain regions are likely to gain momentum.