Algiers, Algeria – A wave of cold weather and heavy snowfall has significantly disrupted traffic flow in several provinces across Algeria. The intense weather conditions, characterized by heavy snow and plummeting temperatures, have led to icy road conditions and considerable difficulties for motorists, particularly in mountainous regions.
Reports indicate that the National Gendarmerie has observed a marked slowdown in traffic, especially in Tissemsilt province. Snowfall has severely hampered movement on National Route 14, which connects to Tiaret, and National Route 23, leading towards Laghouat. Reduced visibility and near white-out conditions were reported on National Route 47 between Brida and the El Bayadh province border due to a heavy snowstorm.
Icy conditions are exacerbating travel hazards in eastern and central regions. Accumulated snow has resulted in layers of ice, especially on National Route 87 linking Batna and Biskra, specifically in the Thania El Abed area. In Bordj Bou Arreridj province, traffic on Provincial Route 42 in the Keff Bougrioua heights of Taglaait municipality has been affected by heavy snowfall.
Even the East-West highway has not been spared, with the province of Medea reporting dangerous ice formation on the highway between Medea and Berrouaghia, particularly at the Ben Chicao elevation. Difficult driving conditions have also been reported on other national and provincial routes, including National Route 31 in Ain Ettine, Provincial Route 54 in the Baali heights, National Route 77 in the Nafla area, and National Route 87 in Thaniet Errassas.
Authorities are urging road users to exercise extreme caution and avoid unnecessary travel. They are also advising drivers to adhere to safety instructions, especially in areas affected by snow and ice, until weather conditions improve and traffic returns to normal. Civil Protection in Batna issued an urgent warning to road users in the province, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance due to ongoing snowfall and ice formation.
