SOFIA – Bulgarian authorities are actively monitoring satellite data from the European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS) regarding the current fire situation in the country. This information was shared by Interior Minister Daniel Mitov in response to a parliamentary inquiry.
Mitov explained that EFFIS provides detailed data on fires in Bulgaria, including geographical locations, hourly temperature anomalies, fire progression, and satellite images of affected areas.
The system also facilitates assessment of the fire danger index, long-term monthly temperature and precipitation forecasts, statistical data, and relevant updates concerning the operational situations in EU member states and other nations, according to Mitov’s response.
In cases of operational need, the General Directorate for “Fire Safety and Population Protection” can activate the Copernicus system.
Earlier this week, Mitov informed reporters that there are currently over 1,000 active fires in Bulgaria, with two significant ones located near Sungurlare in the Burgas region and in the Blagoevgrad region near Ilindentsi. He noted that equipment available through the European Civil Protection mechanism is supporting Bulgarian firefighting teams.
Firefighting efforts near Sungurlare have involved Swedish aircraft and helicopters, including one from the American base in Novo Selo, according to Mitov. That fire is now under control.
Efforts to manage the blaze in the Pirin Mountains are ongoing, with military personnel participating in aerial and ground firefighting.
In July, Bulgaria activated the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, which sent four helicopters from the Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia, and France, as well as three Swedish planes, to assist in firefighting operations.
According to a report from early August by Eng. Tihomir Tomanov, executive director of the “Municipal Forests Association,” Bulgaria ranked first in Europe for forest fires in 2024, second only to Cyprus. The country typically experiences around 600 forest fires annually, affecting about 10,000 hectares and resulting in direct economic losses of approximately 2.5 million euros. (12-13.08.2025)
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