site.btaTroyan Mountain Rescue Service Warns of Avalanche Risk in Balkan Range

As a result of the heavy snowfall in the last days of 2024, there is a risk of avalanches in the central part of the Balkan Range, Marin Sirakov, head of the Troyan Mountain Rescue Service, told BTA on Thursday.

There are also many icy and frozen passages, and passing through them is a prerequisite for slips, serious injuries or the breaking off of huge masses of snow and ice, he noted. The rescue service therefore recommends that mountain hiking should be done with caution, along the marked paths and according to the weather conditions.

Sirakov pointed out that it is also necessary to study the route for the hike well in advance and that it should be tailored to the level of preparation and equipment of each member of the group. Suitable warm clothes, snowshoes, skis, a thermos with hot drinks should be provided. He stressed to always leave with charged phones and, if possible, with a spare battery.

It is also recommended that those who wish to practice tourism in the mountains get a personal mountain insurance and notify their loved ones in advance of the places they plan to visit.

In the event of an accident in the mountains, help should be immediately sought from the central 24-hour post of the Mountain Rescue Service at short number 1470 or at the single European number for emergency calls, 112.