Georgia, Russia: The Verkhny Lars border crossing is closed due to severe weather, June 27

Event

Georgian authorities have closed the Verkhny Lars Customs checkpoint and suspended all road traffic, June 27, due to heavy rain and flooding. The E117 road between Tbilisi in Georgia and Vladikavkaz in Russia is one of the principal routes between the two countries, and is closed until further notice. Personnel have been evacuated from the area around the Customs checkpoint. There are reports of damage to the road infrastructure, and it is not known how long the closure will last.

The road closure will lead to significant delays and disruption to traffic between north-east Georgia and the North Ossetia-Alania region of Russia. A prolonged closure will potentially impact freight shipping.

Advice

Avoid the affected area. Expected significant delays and disruption if traveling by road between Georgia and Russia.