ABSTRACT

Events during the 1982-1994 drought period show many negative impacts of unfavorable climate in Bulgaria, with environmental, economic and social dimensions. Good precipitation and runoff was observed in eastern and southern Bulgaria; values were below average in northern Bulgaria. National drought planning was initiated by the Council of Ministers. Low soil humidity, low growth of timber, continuous drought in oak forests, and outbreak of leaf-eating pests all occurred. A drastic fall of reservoir water levels was observed. Leaks from the Sofia water system, estimated from 40-60 percent, continued throughout the drought. Temperatures were above average, and runoff and precipitation were below average. Precipitation fell to 77% of the average, river runoff reached 46%, indicating a very dry year, with the exception of January and December. The drought resumed with another dry year having 78% of average precipitation and 63% of river runoff. Abatement of forest drought could be seen, with increased growth and decreased forest fires.