Severe Flooding Impacts Southeastern Bulgaria: Kirkovo and Krumovgrad Hit Hardest

january 7,2026 – Intense rainfall has triggered widespread flooding in the municipalities of Kirkovo and Krumovgrad,southeastern Bulgaria,causing significant infrastructure damage and disrupting daily life. While no injuries or fatalities have been reported as of today, the situation remains critical, with some communities isolated and water supplies threatened.

Heavy Rainfall and Infrastructure Damage

Over 100 liters of rain per square meter fell in a short period, overwhelming drainage systems and causing rivers to overflow. Authorities have upgraded the weather warning to red,the highest level,indicating extreme danger. The heavy precipitation began impacting the region in the last 24 hours and continues to pose a threat.

Krumovgrad: Isolation and Water Supply Concerns

The village of Grivka, within the Krumovgrad municipality, is currently cut off after a bridge was washed away by the rising waters, isolating its 12 residents. Local officials are preparing to deliver essential supplies, including medication, via detour routes if needed. The Krumovitsa River in Krumovgrad has reached dangerously high levels, threatening to inundate the city. critically, two pumping stations have been flooded, raising concerns about the potential exhaustion of the city’s water reservoir and a subsequent water shortage.

Kirkovo: Border Villages Most Affected

The municipality of Kirkovo is also grappling with the aftermath of the floods, notably in villages along the border with Greece. Mayor Shinasi Suleiman reported that a restored mill in the village of Shumnatitsa was flooded, highlighting the vulnerability of infrastructure.Rivers have burst their banks in multiple locations, causing widespread road closures and landslides. Retaining walls have also been compromised, adding to the damage.

Ongoing Response Efforts

Municipal officials are currently assessing the extent of the damage and prioritizing repair efforts.Emergency teams are working to clear roads, stabilize landslides, and provide assistance to affected residents. The focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of those impacted by the floods.

Key Takeaways

• Heavy rainfall caused severe flooding in Kirkovo and Krumovgrad municipalities.
• The village of Grivka is isolated due to a washed-away bridge.
• Krumovgrad faces a potential water crisis due to flooded pumping stations.
• Infrastructure damage is widespread, including roads, bridges, and retaining walls.
• Emergency response teams are actively working to mitigate the impact of the floods.