From: Alice Elizabeth Taylor
High Winds and Low Temperatures Cause Damage across Albania

Following yesterday’s high winds, 5 citizens were admitted to hospital for treatment for a range of injuries.

Winds in the capital reached 77km/h and resulted in flying debris and a number of objects being dislodged, falling on citizens. A water deposit fell from the roof of an apartment and several trees were blown over.

The Christmas tree in Skanderbeg Square also fell victim to the gale-force winds, falling over completely. Thankfully no one was injured.

In other areas of the country, low temperatures today and continued high winds will make it even more difficult for the 10,000 people still in tents after the 26 November earthquake. Forecasters predict temperatures could drop as low as -11 in some mountainous region by Tuesday night.

Kukes, Korce, and Erseka are covered in snow and the roads between Kukes and Peshkopi, Kukes and Krume, Kukes and Fushe-Arrez, and Krume-Bajram Curri are unpassable without snow chains. In the east of the country, the roads have been salted and are passable.

Authorities have urged motorists to be careful as more snowstorms in mountainous regions are forecast.

Yesterday, the Durres-Bari ferry was suspended but is due to resume today. Small boats and private vessels are not allowed to sail until 6am tomorrow, if the winds subside.