site.btaRoad Infrastructure Agency Urges Drivers to Prepare for Winter Conditions in Coming Days

The Road Infrastructure Agency (RIA) is urging drivers who plan to travel tomorrow and in the coming days to set off with vehicles prepared for winter conditions, the Agency said in a press release on Wednesday.

Weather forecasts indicate that in North Bulgaria and mountainous areas rain will turn into snow, increasing the risk of icing and slippery road surfaces, especially in the early morning hours when temperatures are lower. Conditions for snowdrifts are expected in mountain passes and the Northeast region, while icy patches are likely in northwestern areas. 

Regional road administrations are monitoring weather forecasts and are ready to take the necessary actions to treat road surfaces in high-altitude areas and mountain passes. The aim is for preventive measures, followed by snow-clearing activities, to begin as quickly as possible to ensure road passability. Priority will be given to motorways, the busiest first- and second-class roads, and mountain passes providing links between Northern and Southern Bulgaria.

Drivers are advised to proceed with increased caution and appropriate speed, keep a safe distance, avoid sudden maneuvers, and refrain from overtaking specialized vehicles treating road surfaces. Blocking traffic with vehicles not prepared for winter conditions hampers travel for other drivers and obstructs the work of snow-clearing equipment.

Citizens and transport companies can obtain information on current road conditions and winter maintenance of the republican road network from the RIA website, www.api.bg, as well as around the clock by calling 0700 130 20. The Agency operates a Situation Centre year-round on a 24-hour basis, collecting and summarizing data on the condition of national roads.