Record snowfall hits Moscow
Freezing rain and heavy snow has killed one person in Moscow and downed over 2,000 trees. Almost half a meter of snow covered the Russian capital within 24 hours — the heaviest amount logged since weather records began.
Plowing through the snowstorm
Moscow authorities were rushing to clean the streets after a record-breaking snowstorm descended on the Russian capital. Officials said that schools will stay open on Monday, although going to school was "optional."
Snowbank on Red Square
The sudden winter storm hit the Russian capital on Sunday, blanketing the city with 43 centimeters (17 inches) of snow within 24 hours. By Monday morning, snow was 55 centimeters thick. The city's famous St. Basil's Cathedral in Red Square was also surrounded by piles of snow.
Thousands of trees downed
A sheet of freezing rain coupled with thick, heavy snow weighed down the boughs of trees across the city. At least 2,000 trees have collapsed due to the weight of the snow so far.
Dangerous traveling conditions
Clogged streets and tram rails caused major delays for travelers. Officials warned drivers to avoid the roads if at all possible. Weather experts warn more icy weather and snowfall is on the way.
Many flights delayed
Around 100 flights from Moscow were delayed due to the storm on Monday alone, according to a service provided by Russian search engine Yandex. Authorities said that 25 incoming flights were also redirected to other airports since weather conditions turned for the worse.
Major snow-removal operation
Nearly 70,000 city workers were mobilized across the city to remove snow from the roads. The snowplow pictured above is working to clear tram tracks.
Winter wonderland for some
Not all heeded warnings to stay indoors. Some in Moscow took advantage of the heavy snow to go cross-country skiing and sledding in the city's parks.
Power outages
The weather also left some 60,000 housholds without power in towns around Moscow, although the power was eventually restored. Snow-cleaning crews were doing double their normal runs through the city as temperatures were expected to plunge once again.