Chisinau school closures announced for Monday due to dangerous glaze ice
All schools in Chisinau, the capital of Moldova, will remain closed on Monday, January 26, following a severe weather alert. Local authorities ordered the shutdown after freezing rain turned roads and sidewalks into hazardous ice rinks.
Mayor Ion Ceban announced the decision late Sunday evening, citing extreme glaze ice and safety recommendations from the Ministry of Education and Research. The move aims to protect students and staff from treacherous commuting conditions.
"In these circumstances and following the Ministry's guidelines, we have jointly decided that students should stay home," Mayor Ceban stated via his official social media channels.
Impact of the ice storm
Municipal services have been working continuously to treat surfaces with anti-skid material. Despite these efforts, officials warn that many areas remain dangerous for pedestrians and drivers alike.
The severity of the weather is highlighted by recent medical data. Over 250 people were hospitalized in a single day with fractures and dislocations after slipping on the ice.
Education and recovery
While the Ministry of Education has encouraged schools nationwide to shift to online learning, Chisinau has opted for a full suspension of classes.
Municipal authorities assured parents and students that the missed lessons will be recovered later during the current semester. Weather forecasts for Monday predict continued light rain and freezing temperatures, ensuring the icy conditions will persist.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
