Traffic in Kyiv and the region is paralysed by a snowstorm, with traffic jams for miles
Traffic in Kyiv and the capital region has been significantly hampered by the snowstorm. According to local media reports, traffic jams have formed on key routes out of the capital, and traffic is almost at a standstill in some places due to trucks getting stuck on slippery surfaces and partially blocking the road.
What we know about traffic jams
The most difficult situation, according to available information, is observed on national highways:
direction Kyiv - Zhytomyr
Kyiv - Odesa route
Traffic on the capital's Ring Road is also hampered, with icy conditions and poor visibility causing a sharp drop in traffic speed.
Why traffic stops
The key factor is icy conditions on hills and sections with snowdrifts. Trucks can lose traction and block lanes, creating bottle necks even where traffic normally moves steadily.
Recommendations for drivers
The best solution for now is to refrain from travelling in your own car unless it is absolutely necessary. If the trip is unavoidable:
plan your route with enough time to spare
Avoid climbs and secondary roads without de-icing materials
keep your distance and reduce your speed
Use public transport whenever possible
Details
Reports of traffic paralysis and congestion emerged in the morning; it is stated that some of the roads have been «standing still» since the morning.
Context.
During heavy snowfall, the biggest delays traditionally occur at the exits from the capital and at roundabouts, where heavy traffic is combined with snowdrifts and ice, and trucks are the main risk of blocking traffic.
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