SOFIA, June 4 – The first half of June is shaping up to be a classic introduction to summer across Bulgaria, with sun-soaked skies, rising temperatures, and the occasional dramatic storm, according to meteorological forecasts.
The month began with a stretch of calm, mostly sunny days, typical of early summer, drawing locals and tourists alike to beaches and parks. But the summer calm will not be without its interruptions. Weather experts are warning of occasional unstable fronts capable of producing short but powerful thunderstorms, often bringing hail — a familiar feature of June in Bulgaria.
Temperatures at the start of this week — Monday and Tuesday — are forecast to range between 27°C and 32°C. The heat will intensify as the week progresses, with daytime highs rising to between 30°C and 35°C by midweek. While the days will be predominantly sunny, meteorologists caution that afternoon thunderstorms could erupt in some regions.
On Wednesday, the northeast may see the first of these storms, followed by more widespread storm activity on Thursday and Friday, particularly in the western parts of the country. Mountainous regions, including the Rila and Rhodope ranges, are expected to be most affected. Though scattered, these storms may pack a punch, bringing sudden downpours, gusty winds, and hail.
“These are typical summer storms — short-lived but intense,” said a spokesperson for the National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (NIMH). “They usually form in the afternoon and can catch people off guard, especially in mountainous and open areas.”
Looking ahead, early forecasts suggest the return of unstable conditions around June 9 and 10, with a renewed chance of violent, short-lived thunderstorms anticipated near mid-month, around June 15.
Temperatures are expected to surge during this period, with highs potentially exceeding 35°C, particularly in traditionally hotter areas such as the Danube Plain, southeastern Bulgaria, and along the Struma River Valley. These regions should brace for dry, sweltering days typical of mid-June heatwaves.
Meanwhile, along the Black Sea coast, the weather is predicted to remain largely pleasant and conducive to beach activities. The first week will be warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 28°C. A slight cooling of 2 to 3 degrees is expected in the second week of the month, but overall, the coastal areas will continue to enjoy a summer-like pattern.
Scattered showers could briefly interrupt beach plans around June 4 and 5, particularly along northern coastal zones, but they are not expected to linger. The sea itself will remain relatively calm throughout the first half of June, with no major storms or high surf on the horizon. Sea surface temperatures, starting around 18–19°C, are expected to gradually rise to 20°C and beyond.
With the summer season underway, authorities are reminding the public to stay alert to local weather warnings, particularly during afternoon hours when thunderstorms are more likely to develop.
“June is a beautiful but unpredictable month,” NIMH concluded. “It’s best to enjoy the sun — but keep an umbrella handy.”