Russia’s Kamchatka Area Buried in Snow, Two Dead

KAMCHATSKY (RUSSIA): A severe snowstorm in the eastern region of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula has left the world in awe as it buried roads, cars, and buildings under several meters of snow, with at least two fatalities reported. The extraordinary snowfall has forced local authorities to declare a state of emergency.

The storm, one of the most intense in recent decades, has disrupted daily life, as snow drifts have accumulated so high that some buildings’ second and even fourth floors were covered. Videos shared on social media have gone viral, showing vehicles completely buried in snow, while residents are digging tunnels to leave their homes. In some shocking footage, citizens can be seen jumping out of windows into massive snowbanks, further highlighting the severity of the disaster.

The capital of Kamchatka, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, has been hit the hardest, with the city completely blanketed in snow. According to meteorologists, this is one of the worst snowstorms in over a century, with snow accumulation reaching levels not seen in 100 years. The storm’s intensity has left many areas paralyzed, with public transportation suspended, schools closed, and business activities halted.

Local officials have criticized building managers for failing to clear the snow from roofs in a timely manner, which may have reduced the risk of avalanches and falling ice. The mayor of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Yevgeny Belyaev, has called for additional personnel to help clear the roads and assist citizens trapped in snow.

Unfortunately, the storm has claimed lives, with two people confirmed dead after snow and ice slid off roofs, striking them in the city. Rescue teams are working around the clock, warning residents about the dangers of falling snow and ice, as more avalanches could occur at any moment.

In the face of such an unprecedented natural disaster, authorities continue to advise citizens to stay indoors and work from home wherever possible, while emergency operations are underway to restore order to the affected areas.