Bulgaria Under Heavy Snowfall and Blizzard Warnings, Road Conditions Complicated

National Weather Alert Issued

Bulgaria has been placed under a severe weather alert, with the National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (NIMH) issuing both orange and yellow code warnings for heavy snowfall and blizzards across much of the country. The warnings, which came into effect on Sunday, February 1, 2026, anticipate significant winter conditions that are expected to complicate travel and daily life.

The orange code, indicating dangerous weather, applies to most of Bulgaria, while a yellow code, signifying potentially dangerous weather, has been issued for the regions of Vidin, Sofia City, Pernik, Kyustendil, and parts of the Blagoevgrad region.

Forecasted Snowfall and Blizzard Conditions

Forecasters predict substantial snow accumulation, with southern Bulgaria expected to receive between 15 and 20 centimeters of snow, and northern regions anticipating 10 to 15 centimeters. Areas under the orange code could see up to 30 centimeters of fresh snow, while yellow code regions are forecast to receive up to 10 centimeters.

Blizzard conditions, snowdrifts, and reduced visibility are also expected, particularly in Eastern Bulgaria, where strong northeasterly winds are forecast to reach speeds of 19-24 meters per second. Temperatures across the country are projected to remain low, generally ranging from minus 3 to 2 degrees Celsius, with Sofia experiencing temperatures around 0 to 1 degree Celsius. Mountainous areas, especially the Rhodope Mountains, are expected to receive the most significant snowfall, with hazardous travel conditions along mountain passes due to snowstorms and drifting snow.

Challenging Road Conditions and Travel Restrictions

The heavy snowfall has led to complicated road conditions nationwide. The Road Infrastructure Agency (RIA) reported that initially 515 snowplows were deployed to clear roads, a number that later increased to over 1,200 machines across Bulgaria within a 24-hour period. Despite these efforts, several restrictions have been implemented, particularly for heavy goods vehicles.

• Movement of heavy trucks with trailers and semi-trailers is prohibited through the Prevala, Rozhen, and Pechinsko passes.
• Similar restrictions apply to roads such as Devin – Mihalkovo and Batak – Dospat.
• The I-2 Ruse - Byala road was temporarily closed twice to heavy goods vehicles over 12 tons due to snowfall and ongoing snow-clearing operations.
• Incidents reported include a truck spinning on the Sofia ring road, blocking traffic from the Struma motorway, and a passenger bus becoming blocked for hours in the Montana region.

Authorities have urged motorists planning travel in the coming days to ensure their vehicles are prepared for winter conditions, to avoid overtaking snowplows, and to drive at appropriate speeds.

Ongoing Response and Public Safety

The NIMH continues to monitor the weather situation closely, providing updated forecasts and warnings. Road maintenance teams are working continuously to clear routes and ensure passability under winter conditions. While roads are generally passable, the challenging conditions necessitate caution from all travelers. There have been no reports of isolated settlements or individuals in distress.