Moldova limits heavy truck traffic in north amid heatwave
Heavy vehicles weighing over 12 tonnes face temporary transit bans across northern Moldova on Friday, August 21, between 10:00 and 20:00.
The measure responds to an Orange Heatwave Warning, with regional temperatures forecast to reach 36 °C.
Targeted areas and safety measures
According to the State Road Administration, the restrictions apply to national roads across Briceni, Ocnița, Edineț, Dondușeni, Drochia, Râșcani, Soroca, and the municipality of Bălți.
The restrictions remain active exclusively in districts covered by the severe weather alert.
High temperatures soften asphalt layers, making road surfaces susceptible to heavy wheel-load damage. Authorities emphasized that the temporary ban prevents structural pavement deformation, including deep rutting and surface subsidence.
Critical transport exemptions
The transit order strictly exempts essential logistic operations.
Passenger services, perishable goods deliveries, medical supplies, live animals, fuel tankers, and emergency response vehicles may continue transit without interruption.
Road authorities advise freight operators and drivers to review meteorological updates and reschedule transit routes through northern corridors accordingly.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
