Moscow City Hall has advised Muscovites not to go outside unless absolutely necessary due to extremely icy conditions, Interfax reported Friday.
The announcement was made by the press secretary of the deputy mayor for housing, Igor Pergamenschik, who earlier told journalists that sidewalks, pedestrian zones and metro entrances would be covered with anti-ice agents.
He added that the settling of sleet and continuing rain combined with strong winds are the main reasons for the appearance of black ice, which can cause treacherous conditions on roads and walkways.
The chief of the capital’s Emergency Situations Ministry advised drivers to drive through junctions with extreme caution and stressed the importance of driving slowly and watching out for pedestrians.
Inexperienced motorists and those with vehicles unprepared for winter conditions are advised to refrain from travelling by car.
Interfax reported that a number Muscovites have already injured themselves falling on the ice.
