At least 12 die as torrential rain, floods hit Bulgaria

At least 12 die as torrential rain, floods hit Bulgaria

VARNA -- Twelve people have died while several others are missing after torrential rain and heavy floods hit the port city of Varna, Bulgarian officials said.

The government in Sofia declared Monday, June 23, a day of mourning for the victims.

Ten died in the Black Sea port of Varna, while two more victims were found dead in the town of Dobrich.

Prime Minister Plamen Oresharski arrived in Varna early on Friday and described the flooding as "an enormous tragedy," AP reported.

Many homes are flooded, while the water swept away dozens of vehicles. Hundreds of people have also been left without electricity.

Floodwaters in Varna reached up to one meter, according to reports.

Forecasters in Bulgaria said that a month's worth of rain fell within 24 hours in Varna and Burgas, and warned that this "extreme" weather would continue.