site.btaState of Disaster Declared in Nova Zagora Following Severe Storm

A state of disaster has been declared in Nova Zagora after a hailstorm hit the municipality in Sliven Region (North Bulgaria) on Thursday, blocking traffic and causing extensive damage. Schools and kindergartens will stay shut on Friday, Nova Zagora Mayor Galya Zaharieva said.

Heavy rain and hailstorms struck areas of Sliven and settlements in the municipality late Thursday afternoon. The storm caused trees to fall, and many car windshields and windows of people’s homes were shattered. Traffic was disrupted, manholes were blocked, and agricultural produce was damaged.

Speaking on bTV on Friday, Zaharieva noted that the municipal centre and eight villages were hit hard by the storm. She said that the fire brigade and the water and sewerage company in Nova Zagora were employed in the clean-up until 2:30 a.m. They were joined by their colleagues from Sliven, farmers, and volunteers.

Zaharieva added that broken wires have been repaired and fallen trees and branches have been removed from the streets. The Mayor urged citizens to be cautious because the rain has not stopped, and there are still leaves and shattered glass in the streets.