Bulgaria is preparing for a wave of hazardous heat this weekend, with the National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (NIMH) issuing orange and yellow weather codes across the country.
Blagoevgrad is under an orange code due to the extreme temperatures expected, while a yellow code is in effect for Vidin, Vratsa, Montana, Gabrovo, Pleven, Veliko Tarnovo, Ruse, Stara Zagora, Silistra, Lovech, Kyustendil, Pazardzhik, Plovdiv, Haskovo, and Kardjali.
The weekend forecast predicts mostly sunny weather, with temperatures ranging from 32°C to 37°C in most areas. However, cumulus clouds are expected to form in the afternoon, particularly over western and central Bulgaria.
This could lead to localized showers and thunderstorms, especially in the mountainous regions. Winds are expected to remain weak, though a moderate breeze will develop along the Black Sea coast.
Today’s weather will start sunny, but by midday, cumulus and cumulus-rain clouds will develop over the western and central regions of Bulgaria. These clouds are likely to bring localized showers and thunderstorms.
The eastern part of the country will largely remain clear, with a moderate breeze blowing from the east-northeast.
Maximum temperatures will range from 32°C to 37°C, with Sofia experiencing a high of around 34°C. Atmospheric pressure is expected to be slightly above average but stable.
The Black Sea coast will enjoy sunny conditions with moderate east-northeast winds. Temperatures along the coast will be milder, ranging from 28°C to 31°C, while sea water temperatures will be between 26°C and 28°C. The sea is anticipated to be slightly rough, with waves reaching up to 3 points on the scale.
In the mountainous areas, cumulus clouds will become more pronounced after noon. Short-term rain and thunderstorms are possible, particularly in the western and central massifs.
Winds in the mountains will vary from weak in lower areas to moderate on higher peaks, coming from the north-northeast. Temperatures at 1200 meters altitude will reach around 29°C, while at 2000 meters, it will be about 22°C.
Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions against the extreme heat, such as staying hydrated and avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
The combination of high temperatures and potential thunderstorms could lead to challenging conditions, particularly in the mountainous regions where sudden weather changes are more likely.
As Bulgaria faces these intense weather conditions, authorities are closely monitoring the situation and providing updates.
The public is encouraged to stay informed about weather alerts and to take necessary measures to ensure their safety during this period of hazardous heat and potential storms.