There are no classes in Varna today, 3 November, either in person or online. The National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (NIMH) has issued a red code warning for dangerous weather, with torrential rain and strong wind. Mayor Blagomir Kotsev decided to cancel classes, and the Ministry of Education and Science (MES) confirmed the decision.
In Burgas region, the warning is one level lower, orange, for dangerous rainfall.
Varna council announced the day off on the afternoon of 2 November. Officials first considered online lessons, but the ministry chose to cancel classes entirely, because some pupils, parents and teachers might not hear about the change in time.
On 2 November, between 8am and 2pm, 76.5 litres of rain per square metre fell on Varna. Water flooded streets, boulevards, basements and shops. The BG-ALERT system was used, and city buses briefly changed some of their routes.
Between 30 and 60 litres per square metre are expected today. Forecasters say the weather will get worse mainly in the afternoon. The wind will pick up, and there is a risk of new floods and difficult travel on the streets.
On the Black Sea coast, the rain will get heavier in the afternoon and evening. NIMH forecasts a strong north-northeast wind and waves of up to force 4 on the sea scale. Highs will be between 15C and 16C.
A meeting at Varna council brought together representatives of NIMH, the fire service, district mayors, city transport and the company that maintains the storm drains. Kotsev ordered extra preparation of the most at-risk spots before the rain. District mayors handed over a list of places where water drains poorly, and preventive steps will be taken there.
Three crews from the drain company were on duty overnight, and eight are on duty today.