Romania: Adverse winter weather forecast across northern and western regions through at least Jan. 3

Adverse winter weather conditions are forecast across parts of northern and western Romania through at least Jan. 3. Strong winds are expected across the affected area and will combine with snowfall in places to cause blizzard conditions, especially in elevated parts of the region. Winds gusting up to 120 kph (75 mph) are possible in mountainous parts of the affected area and visibility may be reduced to below 50 meters (164 feet) in places due to strong blizzards. Hazardous driving conditions are likely due to reduced visibility caused by blowing snow. The Romanian National Meteorological Administration has issued an orange weather warning (the middle level on a three-tier scale) for blizzards and reduced visibility in the Apuseni, northern East Carpathian, and western Southern Carpathian mountain ranges. Yellow warnings for strong winds, blizzards, and low visibility are in place across the Eastern Carpathians, Western Carpathians, and western Southern Carpathians. Yellow strong wind warnings are also in place for low-lying areas of Bihor, Neamt, and Suceava counties. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories, as weather conditions change over the coming days. Sporadic power outages are likely throughout affected areas.

The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions across the affected areas over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Mountain passes and tunnels could be closed as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at airports in affected regions.