Riga City Council warns residents about the risk of icicles and snow falling from building roofs
The Riga City Council has issued a warning to residents about the dangers of icicles and snow falling from roofs due to rising temperatures.
The Riga City Council, citing forecasts from the Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre (LVĢMC), has alerted the public to the increased risk of icicles and snow detachment from rooftops in the coming days as temperatures in the capital are expected to rise. This weather change can lead to the accumulation of wet snow on sidewalks and roadways, heightening the chances of dangerous snow and ice falls from buildings. The municipality urges residents to exercise caution while passing by buildings and encourages property owners to ensure safety by clearing roofs of snow and ice in a timely manner.
According to LVĢMC projections for the upcoming week, the potential for snow and icicles falling from roofs is significant. The municipality emphasizes the need for building owners to abide by safety regulations and to clear their roofs appropriately to mitigate risks to pedestrians and vehicles below. While temporary area restrictions are permissible during the roof clearing process, they are not considered a long-term solution, underscoring the importance of proactive management of snow and ice build-up.
Furthermore, the Riga City Council has stated that winter maintenance equipment will continue to operate according to meteorological forecasts, ensuring the safety and accessibility of public spaces amidst this winter weather. Residents are reminded to stay alert and heed safety measures as the weather conditions change, particularly in relation to their immediate surroundings.