Energy, Latvia

Zigurs explained that just last evening, there were only 5,600 customers without electricity, but rain clouds moved in and now about 10,800 are blacked out, writes LETA.

The most severely affected regions are Ludza and Preili. Rain has seeped into the snow-covered branches, and falling on electric lines now are not only those of deciduous trees but conifers as well.

Emergency crews are out dealing with the situation, numbering about 1,000 people, including 220 loggers. Two crews are from Estonia, two from Lithuania. 13 tractors-harvesters are at the scene clearing snow and brush, while a special helicopter from Finland is sawing trees.

Zigurs also urged the government today to allow Latvenergo to keep its profit, so that it could be diverted to additional investment, however, Prime Minister Valdis Dombrovskis (Unity) pointed out that this is a budget-related issue and a detailed evaluation from the Finance Ministry is necessary.

Interior Minister Linda Murniece (Unity), during today's Cabinet session, also informed that all services are operating at maximum capacity. On Wednesday, another meeting with officials from Environmental Protection and Regional Development, Agriculture, Economy and Transport ministries is scheduled, where such topical matters as preparation for possible floods will also be discussed.

Murniece informed that currently the 112 help line is operating sufficiently, and coordinates the delivery of power generators to the crisis-affected regions.

Economy Minister Artis Kampars (Unity) emphasized that the government's decision to announce a nationwide state of emergency was appropriate and helped solve several legal aspects.