Sofia, Bulgaria: Meteorological authorities in Bulgaria have issued a red code across six northern areas, signalling the imminent arrival of a fierce winter storm.
Vratsa, Montana, Lovech, Gabrovo, Veliko Tarnovo, and Ruse are on high alert as forecasts predict snowfall exceeding 30 cm, accompanied by blizzards that could bring life to a standstill.
The majority of the nation is under an orange code, while Burgas in the southeast remains under a yellow code. The weather spectacle promises a dramatic plunge in temperatures, ranging from a bone-chilling 0°C in the west to a relatively milder 16°-17°C in some southeastern pockets.
Strong southwesterly winds are anticipated before noon, followed by the ominous threat of thunderstorms later in the day in these southeastern regions.
Northeastern Bulgaria is expected to bear the brunt of the storm, with snowstorms and drifting snow creating hazardous conditions.
Even mountainous areas will not escape, as significant precipitation transforms into a thick blanket of snow in lower elevations.
The situation is compounded by a stormy southwesterly wind, threatening blizzards, and reduced visibility to a minimum.
As the storm rages inland, the Black Sea coast will witness different turmoil. Cloudy skies and heavy rain are on the agenda, accompanied by thunder activity in the south.
Southwesterly winds will dominate until noon, making way for northeasterly winds.
Sea temperatures are expected to range between 9°-11°C, with rising sea excitement anticipated during the night.
The weather narrative turns intriguing by Sunday as the red alert shifts eastward. Monday brings a temporary respite with weakened winds and a glimpse of the sun.
However, temperatures are set to plummet to chilling lows, reaching as far down as minus 8° to minus 10° in valleys.
The midweek forecast suggests increasing cloud cover, with rain and snow widespread across the country, particularly in Northwestern Bulgaria.
By Thursday, the skies are expected to clear, though the cold weather will persist, offering a gradual warming trend from the southwest.
Residents and authorities alike are urged to brace for a turbulent week ahead, with snow and rain likely to impact various parts of Bulgaria.
The gradual transition to milder conditions by the end of the week provides a glimmer of hope amid the wintry onslaught.
As the nation navigates through the storm, preparedness and caution remain paramount in the face of nature’s formidable forces.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members