Russia: Twelve killed, dozens wounded in Moscow storm

Event

At least 12 people have been killed, and 125 injured in Moscow city and the greater Moscow region as a result of a severe storm on Monday, May 29. The storm uprooted several trees and destroyed numerous buildings. Moscow's metro services were temporarily impacted, however operations were restored by mid evening. Moscow's Domodedovo and Sheremetyevo airports canceled 13 flights, and delayed 33 others. A broken wire in the Moscow region left 18,000 people without electricity in 102 towns and villages according to the Ministry of Energy.

Authorities are reportedly taking the necessary measures to deal with the aftermath of the disaster. Storms are expected to continue on Tuesday, May 30.

Context

Monday's storm is one of the deadliest on record in the Russian capital. Nine people died and 165 were injured in Moscow in 1998, while nine people were killed during a storm in 1904.

Advice

Travelers are advised to confirm flight and rail reservations, to verify potential road closures prior to setting out, and to allow for extra time to reach their destinations. All those present in affected regions are advised to follow instructions issued by local authorities, and to monitor the situation via local media, the authorities, and reliable weather reporting outlets. Be prepared to leave immediately if an evacuation order is given. Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.