Bad weather forces closure of some 280 schools in Albania

TIRANA, Jan. 10 (Xinhua) -- Heavy snowfalls and low temperatures during the past three days have forced the suspension of over 280 schools in Albania, the Ministry of Education, Sports and Youth informed on Thursday.

According to the Regional Education Directories in Albania, 16 directories and educational offices have suspended classes for all students, while six directories and educational offices have schools interrupted.

The Minister of Defense Olta Xhacka told media that over 2,000 troops of the Armed Forces, State Police, Power Distribution Operator, Albanian Power Distribution System Operator and health-care employees are on standby to respond to emergencies of any kind.