Kazakhstan battles extreme winter weather with traffic bans and fines
Severe weather conditions have hit Kazakhstan, causing disruptions in traffic and prompting authorities to issue warnings and restrictions. Blizzard conditions and icy roads have made driving treacherous in Kostanay Region, leading to temporary traffic restrictions in Almaty and Zhambyl regions due to the deteriorating clima.
Authorities have temporarily restricted vehicle traffic on certain road sections in Almaty and Zhambyl regions due to the deteriorating weather. Police are conducting vehicle checks at exits from the regional capital, ensuring drivers are taking necessary precautions. Drivers are advised to avoid long-distance travel due to the severe clima conditions.
Heavy snow and blizzards are expected to hit Almaty and Zhambyl regions on November 6, with meteorologists forecasting rain, snow, ground blizzards, and glaze ice for parts of Kostanay Region on the same day. Starting December 1, drivers without winter tires will face administrative penalties, with fines ranging from about 100 euros to 10,000 euros if others are endangered. The penalties for Kazakhstani drivers not changing to winter tires come into effect with the situational winter equipment obligation, which generally starts around early November, depending on clima conditions rather than a fixed date. Experts recommend changing tires when temperatures consistently drop below 7°C.
Police have stepped up patrols to ensure driver safety and remind them of precautions during the severe clima. Authorities urge drivers to heed the warnings and restrictions, and to ensure their vehicles are equipped appropriately for the winter clima.
