Authorities in Rostov-on-Don have issued warnings about adverse weather conditions expected to persist across the region until February 7, 2024. With temperatures dipping as low as -7 degrees Celsius, icy roads and sidewalks pose significant risks, leading to potential injuries from falls. Officials cautioned residents about the dangers of icy buildup on roofs and trees, echoing similar weather alerts from the past.
Reflecting back on December 2023, the city's emergency services reported alarming statistics—1,529 residents sought medical assistance due to injuries resulting from icy conditions, including 183 minors. Health services recorded numerous cases of bruises, fractures, and sprains, with 243 individuals requiring hospitalization following serious incidents.
Given the historical trends during severe weather, local officials have advised residents to exercise caution. "Residents are urged to be cautious: wear shoes with non-slip soles, avoid slippery areas, and adhere to speed limits and distances when driving," stated local authorities. Despite proactive measures from municipal services to treat streets against ice, the risk of accidents remains high.
Weather forecasts indicate persistent cold sweeping through Rostov Oblast this week, originating from arctic air patterns settling over parts of Southern European Russia. The region experienced substantial snowfall recently, with northern areas of Rostov and Volgograd Oblasts reporting between 15 and 18 centimeters of snow, and some regions exceeding 20 centimeters. This significant accumulation, coupled with the onset of below-freezing temperatures, has transformed Rostov-on-Don's picturesque backdrop.
Prior to the explosion of winter weather, the southern cyclone impacting the region had begun to wane, leaving behind the colder northeast winds which will dominate for the rest of the week. This shift has resulted in chilling temperatures across the affected areas, with sharp drops forecasted overnight—plummeting as low as -3 to -8 degrees Celsius at night and dipping to between -7 to -10 degrees Celsius in the foothill regions.
On February 6 and 7, 2024, forecasts suggest continued precipitation may occur, leading to rain, sleet, and snow. The Crimean Peninsula is expected to be significantly affected, with forecasts warning of heavy snow and blizzard conditions, creating hazardous travel situations. This wet weather is predicted to compound existing risks as wet snow may cling to trees and power lines, increasing the potential for outages.
Adding to the concerns, as the powerful northern anticyclone takes shape, residents can anticipate brisk northeastern winds reaching speeds of 15 to 20 meters per second, with even higher gusts along the coastlines of the Black Sea, where conditions may worsen to 25 meters per second. For communities like Novorossiysk, warnings are being issued about the potential for strong wind gusts accompanied by sea swells during this weather event.
Experts predict these cold conditions may not be temporary and could linger longer than initially expected, prompting authorities to reiterate safety guidelines. Local residents are advised to stay informed about weather updates and heed warnings from government officials and meteorological services.
Communities are urged to cooperate with local services conducting anti-icing efforts on local streets, but individual vigilance remains key to averting unnecessary accidents and injuries during this challenging weather phase. Preparations are being assessed continuously to manage accumulating snow and mitigate risks as forecasters remain cautious about the relentless grip of winter.
The combination of heavy snowfall and specific weather patterns creates ideal conditions for accidents and emergencies, urging residents to prioritize their safety during these severe weather forecasts.