Ivaylovgrad Dam Overflowing Amidst Torrential Rains, No Immediate Threat to Population
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Ivaylovgrad, Bulgaria – January 8, 2026 – The Ivaylovgrad Dam is currently overflowing due to over 24 hours of heavy rainfall in the municipality. While the dam is exceeding its capacity, authorities report no immediate danger to the population as water is being released through the spillways.
Emergency Measures in Place
The Mayor of Ivaylovgrad Municipality has activated the municipal protection plan, initiating a extensive response to the flooding. Preventative measures are being actively implemented, and continuous monitoring, notification, and coordination are underway between local and regional institutions. Dr. Stefka Zdravkova,the regional governor of Haskovo,is involved in the coordination efforts. Neighboring Greek municipalities have also been alerted to the situation.
Areas of Concern
The situation is particularly concerning in the villages of Mandritsa, Dolno Lukovo, and Meden buk. In Mandritsa,the river has overflowed near bungalows,despite previous strengthening works. Local officials are in constant contact with residents, and currently, no residential buildings are directly threatened.
Ongoing Assessments and Road Clearance
Mayors of all settlements within the municipality are providing updates on critical infrastructure, including:
- electricity and water supply status
- Water levels in rivers, dams, and micro-dams
- Passability of the road network
Municipal crews are working to clear roads of fallen branches and trees.
Border Crossing Closure
The “Captain Petko Voivoda” checkpoint at Svilengrad is temporarily closed to all traffic due to a strike by Greek farmers,according to details from the Border Police.
Photos: Facebook page of the municipality of Ivaylovgrad