Russia: Flight disruptions ongoing at Yakutsk International Airport due to wildfires, July 19

Wildfires prompting flight disruptions at Yakutsk International Airport, Russia, July 19; maintain flexible travel itineraries.

Event

Residual flight disruptions are ongoing at Yakutsk International Airport (YKS) July 19 after smoke from wildfires prompted the temporary closure of the facility on the previous day. Authorities report more than 2,000 firefighters are currently battling around 187 fires in the regions. Yakutsk residents have been advised to remain indoors with windows closed.

The fires reportedly come during the driest summer in the region for 150 years. Further flight disruptions are possible, as well as local evacuations and overland route closures. The scarcity of alternative routes in remote areas means that significant transport disruptions are possible at times. Heavy smoke can impede visibility, producing hazardous driving conditions on some roads. Authorities may restrict the movement of heavy goods vehicles on sections of federal highways if local temperatures exceed 32 C (90 F) and could declare local states of emergency to facilitate the emergency response to severe incidents.

Advice

Check flight status before setting out for the airport and maintain flexible travel itineraries. Seek updated information on road conditions if planning to travel near affected areas; exercise caution if smoke reduces visibility. Review and update emergency action plans. Consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Heed all instructions from local authorities and emergency response personnel.