Algiers, Algeria – A wave of severe cold and heavy snowfall has gripped several provinces across Algeria, causing significant disruptions to traffic and posing challenges for commuters. The adverse weather conditions, characterized by plummeting temperatures and substantial snowfall, have led to the formation of ice on roadways, particularly in mountainous and elevated regions.
Reports indicate that traffic flow has been considerably slowed on numerous national and regional routes. In the province of Tissemsilt, heavy snow has obstructed traffic on National Route 14, which connects to Tiaret, as well as National Route 23 leading towards Laghouat. Poor visibility, attributed to intense snowstorms, has also been reported on National Route 47 between Brida and the border of El Bayadh province.
The accumulation of snow has resulted in the formation of icy patches, particularly hazardous on National Route 87 connecting Batna and Biskra, specifically in the Thniet El Abed area. In Bordj Bou Arreridj province, traffic on Regional Route 42 in the Keff Bouguerra heights of Taglaait has been affected by heavy snowfall.
The “North-South” highway in Medea province has also been impacted, with icy conditions developing on the Ben Chicao rise between Medea and Berrouaghia. Difficult driving conditions have been reported on other routes including National Route 31 in Ain Tine, Regional Route 54 in the Baali heights, National Route 77 in the Nafla area, and National Route 87 in Thniet Ersass.
Authorities are urging motorists to exercise extreme caution and avoid unnecessary travel in affected areas. They emphasize the importance of adhering to safety guidelines, particularly in regions experiencing snow and ice, until weather conditions improve and traffic flow returns to normal. Civil Protection in Batna issued an urgent warning to road users, calling for heightened vigilance due to snowfall and ice formation.DZWatch will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.
