Snow and icy conditions have brought traffic to a standstill on the mountain passes of Transcarpathia: where conditions are the worst
10 April 23:29
Traffic conditions have become significantly more difficult on mountain passes in Zakarpattia due to snow, sleet, and black ice. This was reported by the regional Infrastructure Restoration and Development Service, according to "Komersant Ukrainian"
According to road maintenance crews, the most difficult conditions are observed at several mountain passes simultaneously, where inclement weather has affected road surface conditions and visibility.
Which mountain passes in Zakarpattia have the most difficult conditions
As of now, weather conditions remain difficult on the following mountain passes:
- Uzhok Pass;
- Yablunetsky Pass;
- Latir Pass;
- Abranka Pass;
- Torun Pass.
It is precisely in these areas that snow and icy conditions pose an increased danger to all road users.
Why traffic on the passes has become difficult
In the mountainous regions of Zakarpattia, precipitation is falling in the form of wet snow, and in some places, regular snow. As a result, visibility on the roads is deteriorating, and the road surface is becoming slippery.
The service emphasizes that on certain sections, the following are possible:
- snow accumulation;
- black ice;
- reduced visibility;
- slippery road surfaces.
All of this significantly complicates traffic through mountain passes and increases risks for drivers.
How long will the bad weather last in Zakarpattia?
According to the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Center, adverse weather conditions in the mountainous areas of Transcarpathia will persist through April 11–12. Air temperatures will range from -4 to 5 degrees, and visibility will remain reduced in some areas.
This means that conditions on the roads in the mountainous part of the region may remain difficult for at least several more days.
What road services are doing
Road services are working in an enhanced mode on mountain passes. There, they are carrying out:
- clearing the roadway;
- treating the road surface with de-icing materials.
In this way, the services are trying to stabilize the situation as quickly as possible and reduce risks for vehicles traveling through mountainous areas.
Advice for drivers
The Infrastructure Restoration and Development Service urges drivers to be especially careful when traveling in mountainous areas.
Before setting out, they recommend checking the following:
- the vehicle’s technical condition;
- the presence of all-season tires;
- the condition of the braking system;
- the condition of the lights;
- sufficient levels of fluids.
Drivers are also advised to:
- maintain a safe speed;
- increase following distance;
- avoid sudden maneuvers.
Separately, the road service emphasized: if your car has already been fitted with summer tires, it is best to avoid driving over mountain passes during periods of adverse weather conditions.
Why this is important
The mountain passes of Zakarpattia are among the most challenging routes in western Ukraine during inclement weather. Even a slight deterioration in weather conditions in the mountains can quickly make driving dangerous due to slippery roads, snow, and poor visibility.
That is why drivers should pay close attention to warnings from road services and not underestimate the risks.
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