Special measures because of weather in Moldova: schools of Chisinau to operate online on February 18

The educational institutions from Chisinau will operate online on February 18, due to unfavorable weather conditions. The capital’s mayor, Ion Ceban, has made statements to this effect.

According to the mayor, the measure was taken following internal consultations and based on the recommendations of central authorities, in the context of weather warnings. It applies to all educational institutions from Chisinau.

The municipal authorities specified that the decision had been communicated in advance, in order to allow pupils, parents and teaching staff to prepare for distance learning.

Today evening, Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu announced a string of measures to protect the population and ensure the proper work of public institutions, following the yellow and orange warnings for sleet and strong wind gusts forecast for tonight and tomorrow.

According to the PM’s decision, ministries, central authorities and other institutions will adjust their work schedule for February 18, starting activity at 09:00, in order to reduce the risk of accidents and ease traffic congestion. The end of the workday and the possibility of remote work will be determined by the heads of institutions, depending on necessity.

At the same time, the General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations (IGSU) and the National Army will provide support to local authorities, in order to ensure access on critical road segments and to protect the population.

The prime minister specified that all institutions in charge of crisis management would work their operational protocols and present intervention plans.

According to the State Hydrometeorological Service, during the period February 17, 14:00 – February 18, 20:00, heavy snowfall and stronger wind gusts, with speeds of up to 15–20 m/s, are forecast across the country. As a result, blizzard conditions will occur, with snowdrifts forming and a significant reduction in visibility. Roads will become icy and sleet and glaze ice deposits are expected in some regions.