Romania is bracing for a night of extreme weather as authorities announced on Tuesday. That hundreds of schools and educational institutions across the southern region will remain closed on Wednesday.
The decision comes after the national weather agency issued red alerts for Bucharest and five other southern and southeastern counties, warning of torrential rain and potential flooding.
According to the Environment Ministry, rainfall is expected to reach between 80 and 100 liters per square meter. While some areas could experience up to 140 liters.
To minimize the impact, local authorities have begun preparing sandbags and reinforcing flood defenses in vulnerable areas. Residents have been urged to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel during the storm.
Bucharest’s interim mayor, Stelian Bujduveanu, assured citizens that the capital’s emergency response teams are fully prepared. He emphasized that the administration’s main goal is to maintain normal city operations and avoid panic. “Our priority is to ensure Bucharest remains safe and functional. We are closely monitoring the situation to prevent disruptions,” he told reporters.
Emergency crews across southern Romania have been mobilized to manage possible flooding, road blockages, and power outages. Authorities are coordinating closely with local communities to provide rapid assistance if conditions worsen.
This warning follows a week of severe weather in neighboring Bulgaria, where four people lost their lives after heavy rains struck the Black Sea coast. Romania also experienced destructive floods earlier this summer, particularly in the northeast, resulting in three fatalities.
President Nicusor Dan previously stated that these recurring natural disasters highlight the urgent need for stronger climate adaptation measures. He stressed the importance of sustainable investments in flood prevention and environmental protection. As the country braces for the latest storm, Romanian officials continue to focus on preparedness, safety, and resilience against the growing threat of extreme weather.
