Bulgaria Braces for Snow in Southern Regions as Cold Snap Intensifies

The Rila-Rhodope massif, Mount Strandzha, and Mount Sakar are expected to see substantial snow accumulations, while other parts of the country will witness varying conditions as cold air continues to grip the region

At 1,200 meters, temperatures will drop to minus 4°C, while those at 2,000 meters will face a frigid minus 6°C
At 1,200 meters, temperatures will drop to minus 4°C, while those at 2,000 meters will face a frigid minus 6°C

Bulgaria is set to experience a significant change in weather on January 13, with snow forecasted to blanket the southern regions, particularly in mountainous areas.

The Rila-Rhodope massif, Mount Strandzha, and Mount Sakar are expected to see substantial snow accumulations, while other parts of the country will witness varying conditions as cold air continues to grip the region.

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Snow in the South, Clearer Skies in the North

The southern mountain ranges are bracing for heavy snowfall, which will likely create challenging conditions, especially in higher-altitude areas.

The Fore-Balkan region will experience light snowfall, providing a wintry scene but with less disruption. In contrast, the Danubian Plain is expected to remain snow-free, offering respite from the harsher conditions affecting the southern half of the country.

Meteorologists have highlighted that northeasterly winds will dominate throughout the day, ranging from light to moderate in strength across most areas. However, stronger gusts are anticipated in eastern regions, which may exacerbate the cold feel of the weather.

Temperatures and Atmospheric Conditions

The arrival of cold air will see morning temperatures dip between minus 4°C and plus 1°C across Bulgaria, with the capital, Sofia, recording lows of minus 4°C.

Daytime highs are forecasted to range between minus 1°C and plus 4°C, with Sofia only reaching minus 1°C during the day.

Atmospheric pressure continues to rise, with levels climbing well above the January average, signaling stable yet frosty conditions for much of the country.

Black Sea Coast: Rain, Snow, and Rough Seas

Along the Black Sea coast, residents and visitors can expect cloudy weather accompanied by rain and snow showers, particularly in the southern areas.

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Northeasterly winds will persist, occasionally strengthening and making conditions feel colder. Daytime temperatures along the coast will hover between 4°C and 6°C.

Sea water temperatures will range from 8°C to 10°C, but the rough seas will be marked by waves reaching 2 to 3 on the Douglas scale, with a likelihood of further increases, posing challenges for maritime activities.

Challenging Conditions in the Mountains

The mountain regions will face some of the most severe weather, with widespread snowfall and fog creating hazardous conditions.

Heavy snow accumulation is predicted for the Rila-Rhodope massif, Mount Strandzha, and Mount Sakar, leading to potential disruptions.

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Strong northeasterly winds will shift to east-southeast at higher altitudes, exacerbating the risk of snowstorms and drifts, particularly in mountain passes.

At 1,200 meters, temperatures will drop to minus 4°C, while those at 2,000 meters will face a frigid minus 6°C. These conditions are likely to impact travel and outdoor activities, with authorities advising caution in mountainous areas.

Preparing for the Cold

As Bulgaria braces for a cold and snowy weekend, residents are advised to take precautions, particularly in regions expecting heavy snowfall.

Travelers heading to mountain areas should prepare for potential disruptions and exercise caution on mountain passes prone to snowstorms and drifts.

With temperatures dropping and snow on the horizon, the coming days will test Bulgaria’s resilience against the harsh winter weather, particularly in the southern and mountainous regions.