Embassy help in natural disasters

Earthquakes are not uncommon in Bulgaria and small tremors are recorded throughout the year. Bulgarian is located in a seismically active area of the world making it susceptible to earthquakes. The most seismically active areas are: Krupnik, Blagoevgrad, Sofia, Maritsa, Shabla, Veliko Turnovo and Gorna Oryahovitsa areas.

In the last 11 years there were several small tremors (below 5 on the Richter) each year. The most devastating earthquake was on 18 September 1858 in Sofia at around 9 on the Richter. In 1901 (Shabla and Kaliakra) and 1904 (the valley of Struma river) there were 4 serious earthquakes at 7.1, 7.2, 7.1 and 7.8 on the Richter with 200 deaths and significant damages. In April 1928 there were three disastrous earthquakes (6.9, 7.0 and 5.6) in Chirpan, Popovitsa and Galabovo that affected 1/7th of Bulgaria’s territory. The major earthquake in Vrancea, Romania measured 7.2 in magnitude in 1977 also affected northern Bulgaria (Svishtov).

The Bulgarian Government is responsible for assisting foreign nationals immediately after a major earthquake or serious natural disaster. It is important to co-operate with the authorities.

Despite much research and speculation, nobody can predict when or where a large earthquake might occur, but there are things you can do to be ready. These can make the difference between life and death.

In the event of a major earthquake we will try to locate British nationals affected by the disaster and check on their condition. Please note, however, that the Embassy may also be severely affected by an earthquake and may not be in a position to offer immediate assistance. Local infrastructure including roads, phone systems and hospitals are also likely to be affected.

We recommend that you make preparations at home and at the office to help you survive an earthquake. We have gathered the following information and advice from several independent sources, including

http://earthquake.usgs.gov/
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/InYourHome/Dealingwithemergencies/Preparingforemergencies/index.htm
http://www.reynolds-international.co.uk/earthquakes/travel_advice.htm

Other sources of information are available. We strongly recommend that you do your own research based on your family and other circumstances.

UK in Bulgaria

Embassy help in natural disasters

Prepare your home and office

Prepare your family

If you are inside a building during an earthquake

If you are outside, in a car or train, during an earthquake

After the earthquake