Authorities in Bulgaria’s Burgas region have activated emergency measures after intense rainfall caused significant flooding, cutting off access to several villages and raising fears of further damage as river levels continue to rise.
The emergency warning was issued through the national BG-ALERT system following the overflow of the Fakiyska and Khurdere rivers. The alert covers the villages of Izvor, Varshilo, Zidarovo, and Gabar, all located in low-lying areas vulnerable to flooding during extreme weather conditions.
Burgas Mayor Dimitar Nikolov ordered the activation of the alert as water levels rose rapidly, inundating roads and isolating communities. Officials said the decision was taken to ensure timely communication with residents and reduce the risk of people entering hazardous zones.
Access to the affected villages has been completely cut off after floodwaters submerged key sections of the main road network. Authorities confirmed that the usual routes are impassable, forcing residents and emergency services to rely on alternative roads.
Residents have been instructed to travel only via the alternative route passing through the village of Dimchevo. Local officials stressed that this detour remains the only safe access point until water levels subside and road inspections can be carried out.
Data from a water level monitoring station on the bridge leading to Izvor revealed a water column reaching five meters. Officials described the measurement as alarming, noting that such levels significantly increase the risk of further overflow and infrastructure damage.
According to local meteorological data, rainfall in the area reached approximately eighty-five liters per square meter within a short period. The unusually high volume of rain overwhelmed riverbanks, leading to the sudden and dangerous rise in water levels.
Emergency response teams from Burgas Municipality were immediately dispatched to the affected areas. They are working alongside Border Police units to assess the situation, provide assistance to residents, and monitor river behavior.
Authorities said teams are focusing on ensuring that vulnerable residents, including elderly people and families with small children, remain safe. No evacuations have been officially announced, but officials did not rule them out if conditions worsen.
Local authorities have urged residents to strictly follow instructions issued via the BG-ALERT system. They emphasized that ignoring warnings or attempting to cross flooded roads could result in serious injury or loss of life.
The BG-ALERT system, Bulgaria’s national emergency notification platform, is designed to provide real-time warnings during crises such as floods, fires, and severe weather events. Officials said its activation was crucial in preventing panic and misinformation.
Mayor Nikolov said the priority remains public safety, adding that municipal services will remain on high alert until the situation stabilizes. Engineering teams are expected to inspect damaged roads and bridges once water levels begin to fall.
Weather forecasts suggest that rainfall may ease in the coming hours, but authorities remain cautious. Even moderate additional rain could exacerbate flooding due to already saturated ground and swollen riverbanks.
Residents across the Burgas region have been advised to stay informed through official channels and avoid non-essential travel. Authorities also warned drivers not to underestimate floodwaters, even if they appear shallow.
As emergency crews continue their work on the ground, officials reiterated that the situation remains dynamic. Updates will be issued as necessary, with authorities stressing that caution and cooperation from residents are essential in minimizing the impact of the flooding.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members