Heavy traffic congestion is reported by the Bulgarian traffic police (KAT) on the main road from Rousse to Sofia because of severe weather conditions, Dnevnik daily reported on January 19 2010.

More than 80 heavy lorries have been stranded on both sides of the road, obstructing traffic in both directions, either because "they don't have chains" or are "reluctant to have them installed", KAT was quoted as saying by Dnevnik daily.

Heavy snowfall and an ongoing blizzard, which has lasted for more than 16 hours in some areas of northeastern and eastern Bulgaria and is expected to accumulate to nearly 40cm of snow cover, is the reason cited for delays.

In the region of Dobrudja, the Balchik-Alebena-Kranevo road has been closed to traffic. Roads in the Kroushari municipality have also been closed.

A Turkish bus bound for Romania became stuck in a wall of snow in a village near Kavarna. Emergency Rescue Services successfully retrieved the vehicle and all passengers are reportedly safe.

KAT have said that as the situation develops, "traffic can be redirected and/or stopped" altogether in certain areas, according to the weather.

The Road Infrastructure Agency said that "heavy snowfall" is expected to continue in many parts of central and eastern Bulgaria and along the coastline.

For the moment, Sofia's public transport system is operating normally because snow in the capital is not especially heavy, the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA) was quoted as saying on January 19 2010.

Buses, trams and trolleybuses are reportedly operating on schedule and there are no significant delays. The Sofia Echo has seen snow clearing vehicles, deployed to some major arteries in the city centre, waiting to be put into operation.

Flights in and out of Bulgaria are liable to delays. Passengers are urged to consult airlines regarding their travel plans.