Powerful winter storm paralyses Moscow, record snowfall expected Over 180 flights cancelled VIDEO/UPDATED

A powerful winter storm has brought severe weather to Russia’s capital region, disrupting transportation and daily life in and around Moscow.

The Balkan cyclone, named Francis, has forced the cancellation of dozens of flights at Moscow’s major airports as heavy snowfall and strong winds swept across the region. In the southern and southeastern parts of the Moscow region, more than half of the average monthly snowfall has fallen within just 24 hours, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media. 

Snow has blanketed residential areas, leaving courtyards buried ansd vehicles stranded in deep snowdrifts. Motorists have been seen assisting one another as traffic slowed or came to a standstill in several areas.

Meteorologists warn that the worst may still be ahead. The cyclone has proven stronger than initially forecast, with blizzard conditions, snowstorms, and sharply dropping temperatures expected to continue. By evening, snowdrifts in Moscow could reach up to 65 centimetres, which would mark a record high for January since weather observations began.

Additionally, more than 180 flights have been delayed and cancelled at Moscow airports due to bad weather. Airport staff are working around the clock to clear the runways and treat aircraft with de-icing agents.

Many more flights are delayed on arrival than on departure. At Vnukovo, five flights have been delayed and six cancelled on departure, while 30 flights have been delayed and three cancelled on arrival. At Sheremetyevo, 14 flights were delayed and 2 cancelled, while 84 flights were delayed on arrival. At Domodedovo, 8 flights were delayed and 1 cancelled, while 28 flights were delayed and 2 cancelled on arrival.

Authorities have urged residents to limit travel and prepare for continued disruptions as emergency and utilities remain on high alert.

By Sabina Mammadli