Ministers report on the situation in the country after floodings

The situation in the country is getting back to normal after the floods caused by the heavy rains between 10 and 13 January. This became clear from the hearing of four ministers in Parliament on January 14. All dams are monitored.

Minister of Interior Hristo Terziiski was the first to answer MPs' questions. He said all critical dams in the country are being monitored around the clock. The partial state of emergency in 15 villages and towns in Northwestern and Southeastern Bulgaria remains in force.

The Minister of Environment and Water Emil Dimitrov stated that a controlled release of flow from the dams was necessary in order to prevent overtopping by large waves, which would cause greater damage. Dimitrov said the cascades acted as a buffer to prevent flooding.

The Minister of Energy, Temenuzhka Petkova, announced that 26 villages and towns remain without electricity, but expressed hope that by the end of the day the breakdowns will be eliminated.

Economy Minister Lachezar Borisov said the situation was most critical at Zemen Dam, where part of the side wall has given way.