Bulgaria's capital Sofia is in for a rainy spell after weeks of sizzling hot weather. Photo by BGNES
Main streets in Bulgaria's capital Sofia have been flooded after torrential rains drenched the city on Wednesday.
The high level of collected water brought traffic along major arteries to a standstill, the Civil Defence service reported.
Strong winds that blew in the town the previous night broke branches, damaging draining facilities and clogging shafts.
Meanwhile three villages in the municipality of Montana, Northweastern Bulgaria, suffered electricity blackouts following a night of strong winds and heavy rain.
The rain showers will continue in the next few days, coupled with thunderstorms.
Forecasts warn of a sharp decline in temperates by 10-12C with highs pushing the mercury no more than 23-28C.
The only safe haven from the rainy spell can be found in the eastern regions, where the sun will be shining and temperatures will reach 33-35C.