Floods in Varna: New measures and protection plan until 2033

New Strategy Against Flooding on the Black Sea Coast

Following the intense rainfall on July 22, which caused flooding in Varna, the Black Sea Basin Directorate has begun updating the Flood Risk Management Plan for the 2028–2033 period.

"At the moment, we have identified 37 project areas, with three additional ones added compared to the current plan – the areas of Ticha village, Ravna Gora village, Rosen village, and the area of Krapets village," explained the director of the directorate, Yavor Dimitrov.

Main Causes of the Disasters

According to experts, the risk stems not only from climate change but also from human factors:

• Excessive construction: New neighborhoods on the outskirts of Varna restrict the natural drainage of water.
• Poor maintenance: Uncleaned storm drains get clogged with waste and leaves.
• Illegal practices: Cases of illegal relocation of ravines have been identified, which alters the hydrological balance.

Control and Prevention

The Basin Directorate is stepping up field inspections. Yavor Dimitrov emphasized that in cases of identified violations by municipalities or regional administrations, strict administrative-penal measures are imposed. Preventive activities such as the construction of dikes and the correction of riverbeds remain key to reducing the risk of new disasters.