Moscow hit by record 91 mm (3.6 inches) rainfall in 12 hours, flooding roads and metro stations

A record-breaking 91 mm (3.6 inches) of rain fell on Moscow, Russia during the night of July 21, 2025, marking the wettest July 21 on record.

According to meteorologist Tatyana Pozdnyakova, the rainfall exceeded the previous July 21 record of 39.5 mm (1.6 inches), set in 2000, and became the heaviest for that calendar date since measurements began in 1879.

The rainfall began during the late evening of July 20 and intensified overnight, leading to flash flooding across major roadways and transport hubs. The Moscow Department of Transport reported significant delays and closures on arterial roads, including segments of the MKAD, Third Ring Road, and Dmitrovskoye Highway.

In some locations, stormwater exceeded drainage capacity, fully submerging underpasses and low-lying intersections.

Several entrances to Moscow Metro stations were closed due to surface water inflows, while trains on surface-level lines experienced minor delays. Videos shared on social media showed water cascading down stairways and accumulating in concourse areas.

Drainage teams from Mosvodostok worked overnight in emergency response mode to clear blocked storm grates and pump out flooded pedestrian tunnels. City officials confirmed that dozens of teams were deployed to mitigate urban flooding and restore transit access before the morning rush hour.

Moscow’s three major airports, Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, and Vnukovo, continued operations, though several flights were delayed or rerouted due to visibility and weather-related ground traffic restrictions.

The Russian Emergency Situations Ministry (EMERCOM) issued a yellow-level weather hazard alert, citing the potential for continued rainfall and wind gusts up to 83 km/h (52 mph). Authorities advised residents to avoid underground garages, park vehicles away from trees, and limit travel during periods of intense precipitation.

References:

¹ В Москве побит рекорд по осадкам за 145 лет – RIA Novosti – July 21, 2025.

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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