Snow kept Moscow’s streets difficult to navigate as winter weather intensified, leaving several trucks stranded along the highways. The capital’s transport ministry reported that public services had shifted into an enhanced operating mode to manage the disruption and keep essential networks moving. Citizens were advised to plan ahead and avoid unnecessary travel, especially during peak snow accumulation and gusty conditions.
On Sunday evening, Evgeniy Tishkovets, a leading meteorological expert with the Phobos center, warned of a severe snowstorm sweeping across Moscow. He noted that wind speeds could reach up to 17 meters per second, bringing heavy precipitation that might total as much as 26.5 millimeters for the day—roughly half of the typical monthly norm in a single 24-hour period. The combination of strong winds and heavy snowfall threatened to reduce visibility, complicate road travel, and strain public utilities already working to respond to the weather event.
The advisory highlighted that traffic on urban roads was challenging and some trucks were unable to continue due to the snow and ice. Utilities and emergency services indicated they would operate in an elevated mode to respond quickly to incidents, clear roads, and restore normal conditions as soon as safety allowed.
The ministry urged Muscovites to limit nonessential trips and to use public transportation where feasible, emphasizing caution for anyone still traveling in severe winter conditions. The guidance focused on preserving fuel supplies, ensuring safe driving practices, and staying informed about the latest weather updates and road conditions as the situation evolved.
The hydrometeorology center extended warnings about hazardous weather across the European part of the Russian Federation on November 27. The forecast called for widespread hazardous weather across most regions of European Russia, including abnormally cold spells in the Northwestern Federal District. Snow, blizzards, and icing were expected in Arkhangelsk, Leningrad, and Karelia, with turbulent weather anticipated in the Central and Southern Federal Districts. Authorities stressed preparedness for changing conditions, including sudden shifts in visibility and road surface conditions that could rapidly deteriorate.
Earlier projections from meteorologist Shuvalov suggested that the frequency and intensity of natural weather-related events in Russia could rise in the near term. The expectation was for a period of unsettled conditions, with possible spikes in snowstorms, ice formation, and related hazards. Officials recommended communities stay vigilant, monitor local bulletins, and review emergency plans as the weather evolves. (Source attribution: Phobos meteorological center, hydrometeorology center)