Most motorists in Moscow were alerted to a powerful storm moving through the region, as announced by the city’s main emergency department and relayed by TASS. Weather officials from Roshydromet forecast that from noon until the end of July 5, Moscow would experience a period of strong winds with intermittent rain, thunderstorms, and hail. Peak gusts could reach up to 22 meters per second in certain areas, with widespread sustaining winds of 12 to 17 meters per second. This combination of rough air, rain showers, and potential lightning creates a dynamic and potentially hazardous driving environment that requires heightened alertness and prudent decision-making for anyone behind the wheel.
In response, the Emergency Ministry urged drivers to keep their speeds in check and to slow down whenever feasible. The guidance calls for maintaining a generous following distance and avoiding any abrupt steering or braking. Vehicles should be parked away from trees, overhanging branches, or other structures that could shed debris as the wind picks up. Pedestrians are advised to steer clear of temporary signs, billboards, and dilapidated structures that could topple or crack under strong gusts. The emphasis is on proactive risk management: anticipate slick road surfaces, reduced visibility, and sudden changes in wind strength, and adjust plans accordingly to minimize exposure to danger. Drivers should also plan for possible delays and consider postponing nonessential trips until conditions stabilize, especially on routes known for exposed stretches or tree-lined avenues where wind acceleration can be pronounced.
Earlier updates noted that road transport on certain Moscow streets would face restrictions on July 9 in connection with Eid al-Adha. This additional measure is part of a broader effort to manage traffic flow and ensure public safety during times of elevated weather-related risk. Travelers and commuters are encouraged to monitor official advisories, check live traffic reports, and choose alternative routes or transit options if weather conditions deteriorate. Local authorities will continue to monitor the situation, ready to issue further guidance as conditions evolve and to respond quickly to any incidents that could impede road safety or access to essential services.