Road agency urges drivers to avoid travel in Eastern Bulgaria and the Rhodope

Bulgaria’s Road Infrastructure Agency (RIA) on February 6 said it advises drivers to avoid all unnecessary especially in the Eastern Bulgaria and the region of the Rhodope mountains in the Southern Bulgaria unless it is a health or safety emergency.

According to the weather forecast, strong wind, low temperatures and heavy snowfall are expected, as well as possible snowdrifts, RIA said.

The snow ploughing machines work non-stop to clear the snow and ensure the roads are passable in winter conditions.

In order to enhance safety, certain sections of the roads will be closed for treatment with anti-icing chemicals. Traffic may be fully stopped in sections where there is strong wind and snowdrifts until weather conditions get better and roads are cleared.

RIA urges drivers to travel only with vehicles that are equipped for winter conditions and drive at a speed which is appropriate for the weather. Drivers are also advised to avoid harsh braking, not to take risky maneuvers and avoid overtaking snow ploughing machines.

Up-to-date information on the road conditions and maintenance is available on the RIA website, www.api.bg, and on the telephone line 0700 130 20 at any time.