Severe snowstorms have wreaked havoc on the operations of Batumi International Airport and daily life for residents of the city and surrounding regions, as heavy snowfall accumulated throughout February.
Reports indicate snow levels reached over 50 centimeters in Batumi and surmounted one meter in the mountainous Adjara region. The relentless weather has beleaguered the area for more than five consecutive days, leading to significant disruptions across various sectors.
The impact of the snowstorms was quickly felt as eight flights were canceled at Batumi International Airport today. Arkia Airlines, which had sent flights from Tel Aviv to Batumi, announced, "We were forced to return to Israel due to the heavy snowstorm at the departure airport." This highlights the serious repercussions the severe winter weather has had on air travel, with additional flight cancellations on routes to Istanbul persisting for three days.
Not only the air traffic has been disrupted; transportation within the region has been significantly hindered. All public transport, including buses and trains connecting Batumi to Tbilisi, have been halted, and a number of roads became unusable due to thick snow accumulation. Local authorities have reported sporadic problems with electricity and gas supply, leaving hundreds without basic utilities as winter conditions continue.
Education has also taken a hit with the Ministry of Education confirming, "Training has been suspended across all six municipalities of Adjara." Schools and kindergartens across Batumi, Kobuleti, and other municipalities have been closed to safeguard students and staff against hazardous travel conditions.
The difficulties don’t end there. Reports detail how cleared streets were soon buried under fresh snowfall, complicting cleanup efforts. Adjara’s local government had mobilized services to address the situation, but challenges persist with unpassable roadways.
Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili addressed the storm's impact during a government session, asserting, "The work to eliminate the consequences of the snowfall will continue over the coming days." This statement signifies the government’s commitment to managing the crisis and ensuring relief for affected citizens.
With continuing snowfall forecasted until the end of the month, conditions are likely to worsen before they get any relief. Locals remain anxious about the extent of disruption expected from these severe weather patterns, which have not only affected daily life but also economic activities reliant on stable transportation.
Residents and travelers alike will be hoping for improved conditions conducive to safety and operationality as the snowstorm looms heavy over Batumi.