One month’s worth of rain in 2 hours floods roads and tunnels in Moscow

A severe cloudburst impacted Moscow on July 15, 2025, delivering 75–85 mm (3–3.3 inches) of rain in less than two hours, matching or exceeding the city’s typical monthly average for July. The intense rainfall overwhelmed stormwater systems and caused flash flooding across key districts.

The Russian weather authority Roshydromet indicated that the most affected areas were the Northern and Eastern Administrative Districts. Local media and social media footage documented widespread road flooding, submerged vehicles, and water intrusion into tunnels and underpasses.

Aeroexpress service to Sheremetyevo International Airport experienced delays due to high water levels along segments of its route. Metro lines were also partially disrupted, with some stations reporting temporary closures or limited access.

City authorities urged residents to limit road travel and use public transportation where available. Emergency services were mobilized across the city to manage traffic, block flooded routes, and assess drainage failures.

Meteorologists forecast continued convective storm activity across Central Russia through July 17, with risks of thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds.

Reet Kaur

I’m a science journalist and researcher at The Watchers, contributing to the Epicenter edition, where I cover peer-reviewed scientific research and emerging discoveries across Earth and space sciences. With a background in astronomy and a passion for environmental science, I’ve worked in shark and coral conservation in Fiji, conducting reef and shark-behavior research, contributing to mangrove restoration, and earning PADI Open Water and Coral Reef Certifications. I bring a blend of scientific rigor and storytelling to illuminate the discoveries shaping our planet and beyond.

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