Kyiv and Region Brace for Icy Conditions on February 17, Drivers Urged to Take Precautions

Icy Conditions Warning for Kyiv and Region

According to Главком: The Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Center has issued a warning for icy conditions, known as glaze ice, in Kyiv and the surrounding region on February 17. The phenomenon has been assigned a Level I (Yellow) danger rating. Forecasts predict a cloudy day with occasional clear spells and no significant precipitation. Winds will be easterly at 5-10 m/s, with overnight lows of -14 to -16°C and daytime temperatures of -7 to -9°C.

This warning follows a heavy snowfall that began in Kyiv on February 15, which led to temporary restrictions on large and heavy-duty vehicles. The city's mayor inspected the situation at one of the capital's main entrances from the Zhytomyr direction. In the Kyiv region, specifically the Brovary district, two trucks became stuck in snowdrifts and had to be pulled out by police.

Advice for Drivers and Pedestrians

On February 16, Kyiv experienced severe traffic congestion, with major highways marked red on traffic maps, and taxi fares surged significantly. In light of the deteriorating weather, the Hydrometeorological Center has issued the following safety recommendations.

• Drivers are advised to observe speed limits, maintain a safe following distance, and avoid risky maneuvers.
• Reduce speed when approaching pedestrian crossings and areas near children's institutions.
• Use side lights or fog lights, and do not operate vehicles with summer tires.
• Avoid parking on sidewalks, in the outer lanes of roads, or on shoulders.
• During snowfall, consider using public transportation instead of personal vehicles.

Pedestrians should walk slowly, keeping their legs relaxed and slightly bent at the knees, and step with the entire sole of the foot. It is not recommended to keep hands in pockets; instead, use them for balance. If you lose your balance, try to squat down quickly. Pedestrians must remain vigilant on sidewalks, as braking distances on slippery roads can increase by 4-5 times.

The worsening weather in Kyiv and the region has caused serious traffic disruptions, underscoring the importance of following official advice. Icy conditions pose a significant risk to all road users, and the coming days will be critical for ensuring safety on the capital's roads and walkways. Such winter weather events are not uncommon in the region but require heightened public awareness to prevent accidents.