Winter Has Returned: Snow, Wind and Freezing Temperatures

Winter is back in full force on 22nd of March, with snow, wind and freezing temperatures across the country. In Sofia, snow ploughs are clearing the roads with top priority placed on streets and boulevards with high vlume of publci transport traffic and most travelled streets in the neighbourhoods.

The main roads in the country are passable, but motorists are advised to drive with caution. Snowdrifts are possible.

Code orange weather alert has been introduced for 18 districts in Bulgaria over strong wind and snow. Code yellow has been declared for the rest of the districts.

The situation in Western Bulgaria and Sofia remains complicated. Although around 135 snow ploughing machines are working to clear the snow, there are traffic disruptions at key intersections in the capital. Sofia Municipality advises people not to use their vehicles unless it is necessary and travel by public transport and the underground.

Earlier in the day, there were difficulties in the traffic on Trakia, Hemus and Lyulin motorways. However, traffic conditions are normal at the moment, Road Infrastructure Agency said. Shipka Pass and the Pass of the Republic are cleared and sand has been applied. There are on-duty teams and snow clearing equiment ready to be dispatched as necessary.

Icy road sections caused several road accidents. No one has been injured. Traffic police remind drivers to use caution and adjust speed to winter weather conditions.