Bulgaria is set to experience a significant shift in weather conditions on Monday, as rain, snow, and strong winds sweep across the country, the National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (NIMH) has announced.
The day will begin with overcast skies and widespread rainfall, particularly intense in mountainous regions. In areas above 2000 meters, the rain will gradually turn into snow, bringing the first signs of winter to high-altitude zones. Morning temperatures are expected to range between 6°C and 11°C, with the capital, Sofia, seeing around 8°C.
By the afternoon, the weather will start to improve in the northwest as rainfall eases and clouds begin to break. Winds will shift to the west-northwest, temporarily strengthening—particularly over the Danube Plain and Upper Thracian Plain—causing a noticeable drop in temperatures. Daytime highs will range between 11°C and 16°C, while Sofia will reach around 12°C.
In the mountains, precipitation will continue through the morning before subsiding later in the day. Strong to stormy winds are expected in exposed ridges, making conditions difficult for hikers and motorists. Temperatures will remain cold, with readings around 8°C at 1200 meters and close to 2°C at 2000 meters altitude.
Along the Black Sea coast, persistent cloud cover will bring intermittent heavy rain, accompanied by brisk west-northwest winds. Air and sea temperatures will remain mild, ranging from 17°C to 19°C. The sea will be moderately rough, with wave heights reaching 2 to 3 on the Beaufort scale, posing some challenges for small vessels.
In Sofia, the sun will rise at 6:54 a.m. and set at 5:26 p.m., giving residents a day length of 10 hours and 32 minutes. The moon is currently two days away from its first quarter phase.
Looking ahead, Tuesday will bring a mix of sun and clouds across Bulgaria, with scattered showers likely to pass from west to east. The wind will remain noticeable, keeping daytime temperatures steady at similar levels to Monday. Morning temperatures will dip slightly, ranging between 3°C and 8°C.
By Wednesday, calmer and sunnier weather will prevail nationwide. The northwesterly wind will ease, and skies will clear considerably. However, the morning will be chilly, with frost possible in valley areas where temperatures could approach freezing.
Forecasters say that by afternoon, a significant warm-up will occur, with highs rising between 15°C and 20°C across most parts of Bulgaria—marking a welcome return to mild autumn weather after a blustery start to the week.