Emergency Warning Issued For Moscow Amid Heavy Snow, Blizzards

An emergency warning has been issued in the Russian capital in connection with heavy snowfall and strong winds, the Moscow Main Directorate of the Russian Emergencies Ministry said in a statement.

MOSCOW (Sputnik) – The weather conditions in Moscow will be worsening through the night and morning, according to the statement.

"… in the next 1-3 hours, continuing through the night and morning, up until 11:00 [am] January 5, 2017 snow is expected in the Moscow region and in the city of Moscow," the statement says, adding that blizzards and wind gusts with speeds around 12-17 meters per second (27-38 miles per hour) are also expected.

The Russian Emergencies Ministry warns that power lines could be damaged as a result of the weather conditions and transport delays are expected.

Pedestrians are advised to walk at a safe distance from vulnerable buildings and billboards.