A real drama is unfolding on the S7 expressway between Ostróda and Olsztynek, where hundreds of people have been stranded for hours in cars buried by snow. Due to a powerful snowstorm and trucks that blocked the route, massive traffic jams stretching for many kilometers have formed. In response to the crisis, the authorities of Ostróda, in cooperation with the police, launched a relief operation—delivering hot drinks to those trapped and offering shelter in the city hall building.
Heavy snowfall and strong winds that hit the Warmia and Mazury region on Tuesday led to a complete paralysis of traffic.
On the S7 expressway near Rychnowo, trucks were unable to climb inclines, blocking traffic in both directions. As reported by Anna Karczewska, the traffic jam toward Warsaw stretches nearly 7 km, from the Grabin rest area (MOP Grabin) to Rychnowo. Conditions are even worse in the opposite direction toward Gdańsk, where the backlog is almost 16 km long and extends from Olsztynek. Several hundred vehicles are trapped.
The situation for people stuck in their cars is becoming increasingly dire. Social media posts report dwindling fuel supplies and a lack of food and water. Some travelers require regular medication, which they cannot access due to being immobilized in snowdrifts. Photos published online show snowbanks reaching up to half the height of car wheels.
As the crisis escalated, the police appealed to the local government in Ostróda for assistance. The response was immediate. Ostróda’s mayor, Rafał Dąbrowski, announced the organization of an urgent relief effort.
“We are currently brewing coffee and tea. The police will distribute them to those stuck on the S7,” Mayor Dąbrowski said.
He added that accommodation is being prepared at the city hall building at 24 Mickiewicza Street for those who manage to reach the city. “Those who can get to us are welcome to warm up, use the restroom, and have a hot coffee or tea,” the mayor assured. He emphasized that there is a large parking lot by the city hall where vehicles can be safely left.
The mayor pledged that no one would be left without help and that the city is ready to accommodate everyone in need. “Even if beds have to be placed right next to each other, we will provide a roof over people’s heads,” he declared.
Police and road services continue to work nonstop in extremely difficult conditions. Their main objective is to create a so-called “life corridor” that would allow passenger cars to reach Ostróda. One such corridor has already been cleared, but it is accessible only to passenger vehicles. Weather conditions in the region remain very challenging, with ongoing snowfall and wind-driven drifts hampering rescue efforts.