The aftermath of torrential rains continues to unfold in parts of southern Bulgaria, with dozens of homes flooded, roads and infrastructure damaged and authorities beginning detailed assessments of the losses. In Strumyani municipality, the state of emergency remains in force until August 31, while Batak also continues to deal with serious damage from the floods.
In Strumyani, around 30 homes were flooded after two rivers overflowed during the torrential rains on Monday night. Seven people were evacuated, while residents in some parts of the municipality spent a second sleepless night dealing with the consequences.
Among those affected was Katya Mitseva, whose home is near the Shashka riverbed. She said the flooding arrived suddenly after heavy rain and was accompanied by a powerful noise.
"First it started with rain. Very heavy, torrential rain. About an hour and a half or so. And then finally you hear some loud noise. It was like a train was passing by. And by the time I went outside, I just saw a wave where it was climbing over the trees."
Mitseva said neighbors warned her to leave the house as the situation deteriorated and power lines began falling. She and others had to leave through an alternative exit.
