SOFIA, May 19 — Bulgaria is set to experience mostly sunny weather today, the National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (NIMH) has announced.
While the day will bring pleasant conditions for most parts of the country, residents and travelers are advised to be cautious of early morning fog in some southern lowland regions and the possibility of brief rain showers in mountainous areas later in the day.
According to the NIMH forecast, the morning hours will begin with reduced visibility in certain lowland areas, primarily in Southern Bulgaria. This temporary fog is expected to lift as the sun rises higher in the sky, giving way to predominantly clear and sunny conditions across the country.
In the afternoon, cumulus clouds are anticipated to form over the mountainous regions. While the likelihood of rainfall remains minimal, isolated showers could occur.
“The atmosphere remains stable, but local convective developments over the mountains may bring short-lived rainfall in limited areas,” the NIMH said in a statement.
Winds will vary throughout the day. A weak to moderate westerly wind will sweep across Northern Bulgaria during the daytime hours, gradually shifting to a southwesterly direction by evening. This wind shift is not expected to bring significant weather changes but may contribute to a slight increase in evening temperatures.
Maximum daytime temperatures will range from 18°C to 23°C across most regions, offering mild spring warmth. In the capital, Sofia, the mercury is expected to reach around 19°C — ideal for outdoor activities and city strolls.
Along the Black Sea coast, conditions will also be predominantly sunny, although cloudiness may linger over the southern coastal areas during the early hours of the day. Winds along the northern coast will blow weakly to moderately from the west before gradually turning south-southeasterly in the afternoon. Seaside temperatures are expected to remain comfortable, ranging between 18°C and 21°C.
For those planning seaside activities, sea water temperatures will vary from 14°C to 17°C. The sea will be relatively calm, with wave heights between one and two points on the Douglas scale — a favorable forecast for beachgoers and boaters.
In the higher elevations, mountain weather will follow a similar pattern. The morning will start off clear, with some afternoon cumulus development and localized rain showers possible. Moderate to strong winds from the west-northwest will sweep through the ranges, adding a slight chill to the air at higher altitudes.
Temperatures in the mountains will reflect the elevation: around 12°C at 1,200 meters and about 5°C at 2,000 meters. These conditions make for decent hiking weather, though visitors are urged to prepare for sudden weather shifts and windy passages.
Overall, today’s forecast offers favorable spring weather across Bulgaria, with plenty of sunshine and only minor interruptions in isolated areas. The NIMH advises residents to stay informed of local weather updates, especially if traveling through mountainous or fog-prone regions.