Government mobilizes massive response to severe freezing rain crisis across Moldova
More than 15,000 households across 100 localities lost electricity on Wednesday morning as a severe ice storm swept through Moldova. Government authorities confirmed that emergency teams are working around the clock to restore power and maintain public safety.
Heavy freezing rain and dense fog have coated the country in glaze ice, creating hazardous conditions. Despite the weather, the Executive reported that Chisinau International Airport remains fully operational, with runways cleared and flights maintaining their schedules.
Large scale emergency mobilization
The Ministry of Internal Affairs has deployed 1,793 personnel and 500 specialized vehicles to manage the crisis. Crews focus on extracting veered vehicles, assisting ambulances through icy terrain, and removing fallen trees from national highways.
National road authorities confirmed that 145 specialized units and 372 workers are active on the ground. They have distributed over 1,460 tons of salt and 196 tons of anti-skid material to keep main transport arteries fluid.
Public health and military support
The National Army has been called in to assist local authorities in the Dubăsari and Strășeni districts. Military personnel are currently supporting road treatments and clearing essential access points for emergency services.
Emergency medical services reported a surge in activity, receiving 2,607 calls in 24 hours. While hundreds of calls related to weather injuries and accidents were recorded, officials confirmed that no fatalities have occurred so far.
Shift to remote operations
Due to the persistent ice and freezing rain, most schools have transitioned to online classes. Citizens are strongly advised to avoid non-essential travel and monitor official weather alerts via the 112 emergency channel.
The current weather pattern, which has lasted four days, continues to impact intercity transport. Authorities emphasize that while roads are technically open, extreme caution is mandatory until temperatures rise.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
