The Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia's Far East is currently experiencing an extreme and record-breaking winter, with powerful snowstorms leading to significant disruptions and a humanitarian response. The capital, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, has declared a state of emergency due to the unprecedented snowfall. Reports indicate snow depths exceeding two meters in some areas, with drifts rising to several meters, effectively burying entire neighborhoods and cars. Residents have been forced to dig tunnels to exit their homes or use lower-floor windows, highlighting the severity of the conditions. The snowfall recorded in December 2025 was more than three times the monthly average, and the intense conditions continued into January 2026. Meteorologists and local officials have described this as the heaviest snowfall in decades, with some sources citing it as the worst in 30 to 60 years, and one even mentioning a 146-year-old record being broken in specific metrics. Tragically, at least two elderly men have died from snow falling from rooftops, prompting warnings about continued risks from icicles and heavy snow accumulation. The severe weather has led to widespread transportation disruptions, including road closures and suspended public transport, as well as the cancellation of classes in schools and universities. Emergency services are actively involved in snow removal and rescue efforts. While the headline mentions 'Russia,' the primary focus of the most extreme and record-breaking conditions is the Kamchatka Peninsula, although parts of Central Russia also experienced significant snowfall in late 2025.