EuroWire, MOSCOW: Heavy snowfall disrupted daily life across Moscow on Monday, slowing traffic, affecting commutes and prompting an intensified response from municipal services working to clear streets, sidewalks and key transport routes across the Russian capital. City authorities said snow removal operations were continuing throughout the day as crews worked to restore mobility following one of the most significant snowfalls of the winter season.
Snow accumulated rapidly overnight and into the morning, covering major roads, residential streets and pedestrian areas. Traffic congestion was reported on several main arteries as vehicles moved at reduced speeds, while public transport services operated under winter conditions. Footpaths and public squares in central districts were also affected, with pedestrians navigating compacted snow as clearing efforts progressed.
Municipal services deployed large numbers of snowplows, loaders and support vehicles, prioritising main transport corridors, bridges and access routes to hospitals, emergency services and public facilities. Sidewalks, bus stops and metro station entrances were also included in the cleanup operation, officials said, as crews worked to prevent ice formation and improve safety for pedestrians.
According to meteorological data cited by city services, a substantial share of the average monthly snowfall fell within a 24-hour period, creating challenging conditions for road maintenance and waste removal operations. Weather monitoring agencies reported that precipitation levels recorded during the snowfall exceeded typical mid-January averages, contributing to rapid accumulation across the metropolitan area.
Snowfall disrupts transport and pedestrian movement
The snowfall led to longer travel times for commuters, with motorists urged to exercise caution and allow additional time for journeys. City officials advised residents to use public transport where possible and to remain attentive to weather advisories as conditions continued to evolve. No major injuries linked to the snowfall were reported by authorities.
Snow-clearing operations extended into residential neighbourhoods as crews moved beyond central districts once priority routes had been addressed. Officials said work was being carried out in stages, with repeat clearing planned in areas where snowfall persisted or where compacted snow posed a risk to vehicles and pedestrians.
Safety guidance issued to residents
City services said they were operating under enhanced winter protocols, which include continuous monitoring of weather conditions and the rapid redeployment of equipment as needed. Heavy snow collected from streets was being transported to designated disposal sites to prevent secondary congestion in urban areas.
Authorities said cleanup efforts would continue until road conditions stabilised, adding that residents should remain alert to changing weather and follow safety guidance issued by local services. The snowfall marked a reminder of the logistical challenges posed by winter weather in one of Europe’s largest cities, where maintaining transport links and public safety remains a key priority during periods of heavy precipitation.