MOLDOVA

Moldova is dealing with climate change impacts as well as serious hydrogeological and seismic risks. From heatwaves and droughts to floods, landslides, and earthquakes, these hazards affect thousands and damage infrastructure.

This info was shared during an Online Study Visit on April 11, 2025, based on data from February 14, 2025.

Extreme Weather:

• Heatwaves up to 40°C harm crops and health.

• Droughts cut harvests by up to 50%.

• Floods, like the 2010 Cotul Morii event, have forced entire villages to relocate.

• Hail and frost cause large agricultural losses.

Landslides & Soil Erosion:

• Landslides damage homes and roads (e.g., Leușeni 1998, Nemțeni 2010).

• Damage costs millions.

• New laws help manage these risks.

Seismic Risks:

• Moldova feels earthquakes from the nearby Vrancea zone (Romania).

• The 1940 quake (7.4 magnitude) caused casualties and damage.

• Building codes aim to reduce earthquake impacts.

Wildfires:

• In 2022, over 6,000 wildfires damaged large areas.
  
  

⚠️ These overlapping hazards create complex challenges, but authorities and partners are improving warning systems and risk management.