Moldova freezes over: Temperatures plunge, roads slick
Moldovans prepare for a frigid Wednesday as a polar air mass engulfs the country, bringing dangerously low temperatures and treacherous roads.
The national meteorological service issued a yellow alert for a dramatic temperature plunge starting January 10th.
"The arrival of arctic air will cause a significant temperature drop," reads the meteorologic forecast. "Overnight lows are expected to range between -10 and -15 degrees Celsius, with isolated areas potentially witnessing even colder chills."
This harsh forecast follows a period of heavy rain and snowfall that blanketed the country and left seven villages without electricity. While crews work tirelessly to restore power, residents brace for the biting winter conditions.
Icy roads and potential black ice formation pose serious threats to motorists. Authorities urge caution and advise drivers to adjust their speed and maintain ample distance between vehicles. Pedestrians are also encouraged to bundle up and wear proper footwear for navigating slippery sidewalks.
Emergency services remain on high alert. In the past 24 hours alone, the national emergency call number 112 received 6,397 calls, managing 2,686 cases. Ambulances responded to over 1,900 calls, police handled 628 emergencies, and 145 missions were assigned to rescue teams and firefighters.
Translation by Iurie Tataru