Romania Faces Winter Weather Challenges Impacting Travel
Severe winter weather has gripped Romania, causing major disruptions to transportation and prompting urgent warnings from local authorities. With snow and ice blanketing roads across the country, both motorists and train passengers are facing considerable challenges as they navigate their daily commutes.
On the evening of February 16, 2025, Bucharest experienced several accidents due to icy conditions. One motorist lost control of their vehicle on Doamna Ghica Street, leading to severe damage to the car and property damage when they collided with a pole and knocked over a garbage bin. According to video footage shared by a local Facebook traffic group, the driver slipped on ice, veered from the second lane, and ended up being stranded on the roadway. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.
Reports indicate another accident occurred on Mihai Bravu Bridge, where ice accumulation again played a pivotal role. Drivers are cautioned to remain vigilant, particularly on Lugojana Street, where danger levels are high due to concealed ice under snow. Local residents have taken to social media to warn others about sections of the roads where conditions are perilous, including DN5 and Pieptănari Road.
Municipal authorities have been quick to respond. The Bucharest local police have stepped up vigilance to identify and mitigate areas at risk of icing, focusing on bridges, slopes, and main traffic arteries. Snow removal crews are also on standby, ready to deploy as warranted. “At this hour, traffic is proceeding under typical winter conditions,” tweeted the authorities at around 4:50 PM.
Further complicATING matters is the impact on rail transport. The National Railway Company, CFR SA, confirmed all train lines are operational; nevertheless, they acknowledge the necessity to adapt services to meet the prevailing adverse weather conditions, which include low temperatures and various forms of precipitation.
On Sunday morning, February 16, at around 9:30 AM, train services between Roșiori Nord and Craiova were temporarily interrupted due to the breaking of a rail line, leading to delays for travelers. CFR SA expressed regret, assuring passengers they are actively working to restore normal operations. Passengers are encouraged to check the status of their journeys via official channels, including phone lines, the CFR websites, and the ‘Trenul Meu’ application.
Meanwhile, the city of Constanța is not exempt from the winter turmoil. The municipality has been hard at work clearing snow from streets, sidewalks, and other important areas to maintain public safety. The local administration has mandated drivers to equip their vehicles with winter tires, as Constanța remains under yellow alert for snow until February 18.
Efforts are underway to position snow removal units at strategic locations throughout Constanța to handle situations as they arise. The municipality is also prepared to accommodate homeless individuals, offering shelter facilities complete with heat and running water.
Given the continuing winter weather advisory, police across affected areas are urgently advising drivers to exercise caution. They’ve distributed educational materials stressing the importance of adapting speed to road conditions and ensuring vehicles are adequately equipped to handle snow and ice. The Romanian Police emphasized, “Do not venture out without winter tires!” and suggested maintaining safe speeds to enable proper stopping distances to avert accidents.
The law enforcement agency also highlighted the prohibition against driving on public roads covered with snow, ice, or slush without the appropriate winter tire setup. This type of caution is necessary due to the likelihood of reduced visibility and the unique challenges winter conditions present.
Pursuant to police recommendations, drivers must be alert and engage their vehicle lights during low visibility conditions caused by rain, sleet, or snow. “Always use your headlights during the day, especially during poor weather conditions,” stated police officials.
Pedestrians are also advised to stay vigilant during these winter months, especially as daylight fades, emphasizing the importance of closely checking for oncoming traffic before crossing.
This winter’s harsh weather serves as a potent reminder of the need for caution and preparedness. With authorities actively coordinating responses and promoting safety, both drivers and commuters are urged to be proactive and keep informed as the winter weather continues to evolve.
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