Orenburg residents faced challenging weather conditions as they welcomed the New Year, with forecasts indicating snow, wet snow, and blizzards across the region. Starting at 4:40 AM on January 1, all types of vehicles were restricted from travelling on the M-5 Ural highway from Krasnoschekovo to Novonikolskoe, impacting those planning to travel for the celebrations. Similarly, travel restrictions were implemented on the road segment from Kamennoye Ozero to Mednogorsk, affecting several routes across Orenburg.
According to the local meteorological service, residents can expect predominantly cloudy skies with snow across most areas, local blizzards, and strong winds. "Forecast predicts cloudy weather with snow and blizzards," the meteorological service indicated. Winds from the south will be blowing at speeds of 7 to 12 m/s, with gusts potentially reaching 15 to 20 m/s especially in central and eastern zones.
The temperatures throughout Orenburg are predicted to range between -2 and -7 degrees Celsius, raising concerns about the conditions on the roads. "There will be snow drifts and ice on the roads," warned local authorities. Residents have been advised to take caution, especially when venturing outside or driving.
For those intending to celebrate New Year’s Eve outdoors, the city management ensured public transportation was available. Public transport routes through the city center, including bus numbers 2, 7, 10, 21, and 80N, will operate until midnight. This decision allows those wishing to gather at popular spots like Soviet Street and Lenin Square to easily make their way there. The city's transport administration noted, "Five routes will operate until midnight, ensuring accessibility for the New Year's festivities."
On January 1, the weather conditions are not expected to improve substantially. "Cloudy and warm conditions with precipitation are likely," meteorologists forecast, with snow and wet snow expected to blanket the region. Stronger snowfalls are predicted for northern and eastern areas along with occasional blizzards. Winds from the southwest will persist at speeds of 8 to 13 meters per second, with gusts increasing to 16-21 m/s, raising the potential for travel difficulties.
With the New Year now underway, Orenburg’s residents are urged to stay updated on weather conditions and adhere to transportation advisories to avoid the risks posed by icy roads and snow drifts. Emergency services are on standby as they monitor the weather, ready to assist those affected by the storm.
Given the precipitation and low temperatures, residents are encouraged to adopt safety measures when heading out. Snow and wet conditions can contribute to hazardous roadways, and community members should remain cautious when driving or walking during these weather events. While the charm of snow can be enticing, safety must take precedence as Orenburg navigates the challenges brought by this winter storm.