A powerful winter storm paralyzed southern Romania overnight Tuesday into Wednesday, triggering the first red weather alert of 2026 in Bucharest and causing widespread transport disruptions across the region. The historic snowfall – reaching 50cm in some areas – forced the closure of major highways and canceled all flights at Henri Coandă International Airport through Wednesday morning.
Emergency Response Mobilized
Over 300 emergency workers deployed snowplows and rescue teams as wind gusts exceeding 70 km/h created whiteout conditions. Maritime traffic along the Danube River remained suspended for 14 hours, stranding cargo vessels carrying agricultural exports. "This is the most severe February storm in a decade," stated Ion Popescu of Romania's Emergency Situations Inspectorate.
Economic Ripples Felt
The disruption comes as regional markets brace for temporary supply chain delays, particularly in grain and automotive exports. Several multinational manufacturers temporarily halted operations in Prahova Valley industrial parks due to workforce accessibility issues. Analysts suggest the storm could impact Romania's Q1 GDP growth projections if transport links remain compromised through Friday.
Meteorologists predict sub-zero temperatures will persist through the weekend, with authorities urging residents to avoid nonessential travel. Over 800 travelers remained sheltered at Bucharest's main rail station as of Wednesday afternoon, awaiting restored service on key routes to Constanța and Brașov.
