Almaty transforms into a snowy paradise after unexpected November storm
Almaty residents awoke to a winter wonderland on November 5, after heavy snowfall began the previous evening. Social media was flooded with images of snow-covered streets, transforming the city into a scene straight out of a Christmas card.
The snow started falling around 8:00 PM on November 4, blanketing the city with approximately 10 millimeters of precipitation overnight. Despite drivers' fears of gridlock, traffic remained relatively calm, with no major traffic jams reported.
However, the Almaty police department reported 17 traffic accidents between 6:00 PM and 6:00 AM, leaving six people injured. Authorities have since warned motorists to winterize their vehicles and switch to winter tires, urging both drivers and pedestrians to adhere to road rules.
Cleanup efforts are underway, with street sweepers and snowplows operating since early morning. Meanwhile, the Shymbulak ski resort is experiencing heavy snowfall, with snow depth exceeding 25 centimeters by morning. The winter season at Shymbulak typically begins in late November, with opening dates depending on weather conditions and trail readiness for skiing.
The early snowfall has brought an unexpected start to the winter season in Almaty. While it caused some traffic accidents, the city has largely adapted, with cleanup efforts ongoing and authorities reminding residents to prepare for winter driving conditions.
