Powerful Snowfall Hits Nizhny Novgorod

On the morning of January 27, Nizhny Novgorod was hit by a powerful snowfall. According to forecasts, the snow cover level could exceed 20 centimeters (8 inches) by nightfall.

A snow cyclone that came from Europe has affected Central Russia. In Moscow, according to Mikhail Leus, a specialist from the Phobos weather center, about 20% of the monthly precipitation norm fell overnight. Authorities in Nizhny Novgorod expect that over four days, more than 70 centimeters (28 inches) of snow will fall in the city.

Mayor Yuri Shalabaev noted that in January, 171% of the average monthly norm has already fallen, making this month one of the snowiest in history. «In this indicator, we have significantly surpassed Moscow and Kazan, which also suffered from the snow cyclone during the New Year holidays,» he stated.

Municipal services have begun snow removal, primarily clearing major highways. Residents are asked not to park cars on the shoulders to avoid hindering the equipment. The traffic situation remains tense: online maps show six-point traffic jams. Movement is hampered due to accidents, for example, on Pokhvalinsky Descent, a truck blocked the ascent.

City residents are sharing impressions of the bad weather. «I went out for a walk with my dog, I was almost blown away,» said reader Evgeny. Another resident, Alexander, is outraged: «As if we didn»t have enough snow at the beginning of the month.«

Forecasters warn that frost will return to the region on Friday. The air temperature will drop to -16 degrees Celsius (3°F).