Weather hazards

Strong storms, winds and drops in temperature are the main features

After the unseasonal balmy temperatures over the last few days, the weather will deteriorate in most parts of the country beginning on Friday until Saturday, with gale-force winds, rainstorms, lightning and local hail, according to a bulletin issued by the National Meteorological Service (EMY) on Thursday afternoon.

Stormy weather and strong winds until Saturday - Risk of flooding in certain geographical areas

Overnight, the precipitation zone will gradually shift eastward, with significant amounts expected in parts of Central and Eastern Bulgaria, accompanied by thunderstorms. Winds in the eastern half of the country will mostly come from the west-northwest, blowing at moderate speeds. Minimum temperatures will range between 5°C and 10°C, with around 5°C expected in Sofia.

Overnight, expect considerable cloud cover, particularly in western regions, accompanied by showers. In Northwestern Bulgaria, expect a west-northwest wind bringing colder air. Across the rest of the country, the wind will be moderate from the south-southwest. Minimum temperatures will range from 13°C to 18°C, slightly lower in northwestern areas, with Sofia at around 13°C.

Tonight, the weather will be predominantly clear across the country. In the eastern half, there will be a gentle northerly breeze, while in other regions, winds will be minimal. Overnight temperatures will range between 7°C and 12°C, with Sofia experiencing around 7°C.

A dust storm originating from the Sahara Desert is sweeping across Istanbul, prompting health warnings from experts due to potential adverse effects on respiratory health.

The dust clouds, propelled by strong winds, reached Türkiye from the Sahara Desert and engulfed Istanbul during the midnight hours, impacting some districts.

As the night progresses, Western Bulgaria will see an increase in cloud cover, with light rainfall expected in some areas, particularly after midnight. Meanwhile, Eastern Bulgaria will experience clear skies with no precipitation anticipated.

A massive dust storm from the Sahara Desert is expected to shroud the country, with experts warning citizens, especially those with respiratory disorders, to take precautions.

Professor Dr. Doğan Yaşar, a climate scientist, cautioned that a period of intense dust transport will begin on March 25.

The Turkish State Meteorological Service has announced that air temperatures will decrease, except for the Marmara region, and precipitation will occur across the country.