Rescue operation on Botev Peak for a missing Romanian tourist

A search operation for a Romanian tourist is underway in the area of Mount Botev after the man reported being lost last night. Teams from the Mountain Rescue Service (MRS) of the Bulgarian Red Cross (BRC) from Karlovo and Kalofer have been mobilized for the large-scale search operation. The information was confirmed to BTA by representatives of the service, who specified that the search resumed this morning after it initially began last night.

According to the available information, the report of the lost Romanian tourist was filed late last night, which led to the immediate involvement of the rescuers from Karlovo. They began the initial search activities in the area. This morning, to intensify the operation and cover a larger perimeter, the unit from Kalofer joined them. The combined efforts of the two rescue teams aim to locate and help the tourist as quickly as possible.

Weather Conditions in the Mountains

The MRS teams warn that despite the seemingly good conditions for tourism, there has been a cold snap in the mountains due to a passing cold atmospheric front. Currently, the weather is described as sunny, with variable cloudiness and mostly calm. However, a light wind is blowing in the Mount Botev area, which can further lower the perceived temperature.

According to the Mountain Rescue Service, temperatures on Mount Botev are lower, reaching around 7-8 degrees, while in the resort areas they are around 11-12 degrees. These values are typical for mountain conditions and require appropriate equipment and preparation from tourists.

Despite the good weather, the MRS warns tourists to be extremely careful and to be mindful of the changing conditions, especially after the passage of the colder front yesterday. This type of atmospheric change can make transitions more difficult and risky.

NIMH Forecast

More details regarding the meteorological situation were provided by the National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (NIMH). According to their forecast, it will be mostly sunny in the mountain areas, but with temporary increases in cloudiness, which may lead to brief precipitation.

The NIMH specifies that in the afternoon, light rain is possible in isolated places, especially in the Rila-Rhodope region, as well as in the central and eastern parts of the Stara Planina and Strandzha. The forecast also includes a wind warning - moderate, and on the highest peaks - strong, with a west-northwest direction.

Maximum temperatures are expected to be around 22 degrees at an altitude of 1200 meters, while at 2000 meters it will be significantly lower, around 15 degrees. These temperature differences further emphasize the need for preparation during mountain hikes.

The ongoing rescue operation and weather warnings serve as a reminder of the risks of hiking in the mountains, especially for tourists who are not sufficiently prepared for sudden changes in the weather. The rescue teams continue to actively work on locating the missing tourist.