Bulgaria is set to experience a day of rain and thunderstorms across the majority of its territory on Monday, May 27, with the National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (NIMH) issuing alerts for unstable weather conditions in many parts of the country.
According to the forecast, cloudy skies will dominate the morning hours, especially in Western and Central Bulgaria, gradually expanding to other regions as the day progresses. Showers and thunderstorm activity are expected to intensify in the afternoon, particularly in mountainous and central areas. In some places, rainfall could be locally intense, accompanied by hail and strong wind gusts.
The temperatures, however, will remain seasonally mild. Morning lows are projected to range between 11°C and 16°C, while daytime highs are expected to reach between 21°C and 26°C. The capital Sofia is forecast to see a high of 22°C, with rain and thunderstorms developing by midday.
Eastern Bulgaria, particularly coastal regions along the Black Sea, will initially experience more stable weather, with sunshine during the first part of the day. However, the weather is also expected to deteriorate there by late afternoon, with showers spreading to Varna, Burgas, and other port cities.
Meteorologists warn that drivers and outdoor workers should exercise caution due to possible sudden downpours, slippery roads, and poor visibility. Urban flooding could also occur in low-lying areas, especially in municipalities with insufficient drainage infrastructure. Citizens are advised to monitor local warnings and updates throughout the day.
The Rhodope Mountains and Stara Planina (Balkan Mountains) are predicted to receive significant rainfall, with NIMH flagging these zones as particularly at risk for local flooding and hailstorms. Tourists and hikers are urged to postpone any high-altitude excursions due to the high likelihood of electrical storms and rapidly changing conditions.
In the southern regions, including Plovdiv and Smolyan, the weather is likely to fluctuate between brief sunny intervals and heavy showers. Plovdiv is expected to record a high of 25°C, but thunderstorms could roll in by early afternoon, accompanied by gusty winds.
The weather instability is attributed to the movement of a low-pressure system from the southwest, which is drawing moist air across the Balkans and creating conditions ripe for convective storm activity. Experts believe the system will continue influencing the country’s weather well into Tuesday, with improving conditions likely by mid-week.
In addition to ground-level impact, the weather is expected to disrupt some domestic flights and public transportation routes. Authorities have urged municipal disaster response teams to be on standby and prepared for any emergencies related to heavy rainfall or wind damage.
Farmers and agricultural producers have also been put on alert. Sudden hailstorms at this time of year can cause significant damage to young crops, particularly fruits, vegetables, and vineyards in central and southern Bulgaria. The Ministry of Agriculture has issued a notice recommending the use of protective netting and warning of potential delays in seasonal harvesting activities.
The current forecast continues a pattern of unstable spring weather that has defined much of May in Bulgaria. While temperatures have generally remained mild, the recurring episodes of thunderstorms and heavy rain have impacted farming schedules, outdoor events, and tourism activities across the country.
Residents are urged to remain alert, follow official advisories, and prepare for sudden weather changes. With thunderstorms on the radar for most of Bulgaria on Monday, May 27, the public is advised to take standard safety precautions—avoid flooded roads, remain indoors during lightning activity, and check updates from the NIMH and local authorities throughout the day.
Source: Novinite
