Bulgaria weather: Record heat in August followed by warm September

weather forecast August 2026 heatwave meteorological data September weather outlook Bulgaria climate

Bulgaria experienced one of its hottest and driest Augusts in nearly a century in 2026. According to the National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology, the month ranked as the fourth warmest since 1930 and the driest since 1988. Temperatures reached a maximum of 40.5 degrees Celsius in Novachene, while rainfall levels in many regions were significantly below average.

As the country transitions into September, weather patterns remain variable. The beginning of the month is characterized by continued heat, with temperatures ranging between 31 and 37 degrees Celsius in many areas. While much of the country remains sunny, instability in Western and Central Bulgaria is expected to bring convective clouds, short-term heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and potential hail.

Forecasts for the remainder of September suggest temperatures will remain above normal, though a cold atmospheric front is expected to pass through later in the month, potentially bringing a temporary cooling period. The Black Sea coast is expected to remain warmer and sunnier compared to the inland regions.

Entities

Belasitsa · Black Sea · Bulgaria · National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology · Pirin · Sofia

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

[● 3 SOURCES] Short-term rain and thunderstorms are expected in mountain regions of Western Bulgaria. safenews.bg · viaranews.com · petel.bg
[● 3 SOURCES] The Black Sea coast will experience temperatures between 27°C and 28°C. safenews.bg · viaranews.com · petel.bg
[● 3 SOURCES] Sofia is expected to reach a maximum temperature of approximately 32°C. safenews.bg · viaranews.com · petel.bg
[● 3 SOURCES] Sea water temperatures on the Black Sea are between 25°C and 26°C. safenews.bg · viaranews.com · petel.bg
[● 2 SOURCES] Unstable weather with potential hail and thunderstorms is forecast for Tuesday and Wednesday in Western and Central Bulgaria. safenews.bg · viaranews.com
[● 3 SOURCES] Maximum temperatures across Bulgaria will range between 31°C and 36°C on August 31. safenews.bg · viaranews.com · petel.bg