The Macedonian Army (ARM) will distribute food, hygiene materials and medicines in populated places that are inaccessible due to the snowfalls in municipalities Sopiste, Studenicani and Cucer Sandevo.

This measure resulted from Wednesday's meeting of the Government's Coordination Body tackling the situation following intensive snowfalls.

"The food comes from the commodity reserves and defense reserves. The Red Cross will provide personal hygiene packages, whereas the Ministry of Health has determined a list of medicines necessary for the population", said Minister of Transport and Communications Mile Janakieski.

The operation will continue on Thursday if weather conditions allow it.

"The Protection and Rescue Directorate, in cooperation with municipalities, will engage construction companies in the cleanup of local roads, whereas motorways and regional roads are passable", stressed Janakieski.

He urged local self-governments to engage all forces at disposal in the cleanup of local road sections. Fresh snowfalls are expected over the weekend.

Asked if a state of emergency would be declared in certain municipalities, Janakieski said this was not necessary, adding the Coordination Body monitored developments on a daily basis.