Don Drivers Warned of Snowdrifts, Black Ice and Blizzard

Rostov Region will experience heavy snowfall, with blizzards in some areas. Governor Yury Slusar has ordered municipal heads to prepare for severe weather — the region may introduce a state of heightened readiness.

Meteorologists expect up to twenty centimeters of snow and severe black ice in the next 24 hours. Temperatures will drop, but only slightly. Roads will have snowdrifts. Visibility will deteriorate to 1–2 kilometers, and at times to 500 meters.

Heads of cities and districts in the region must «ensure round-the-clock duty to monitor the condition of critical infrastructure.» This refers to heating systems and power lines. Emergency teams are to be expanded. Utility services and snow removal equipment must be ready for the snowfall.

«Dear residents, I ask you to be extremely careful and, if possible, avoid using personal transport so as not to worsen the road situation,» Slusar addressed Don residents.

The Rostov Region State Traffic Inspectorate has also warned residents about reduced visibility and slippery roads. Both drivers and pedestrians are asked to be more attentive.

«Reduce your speed, keep your distance, and avoid sudden maneuvers. If you haven»t changed your tires yet — now is the time to do it right away. Winter tires in such weather are not a comfort but a necessity,« the Don State Traffic Inspectorate»s press service reports.