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Drive the ‘ice road’, Estonians told
Cold spell means cars can cross 20km stretch of frozen sea but drivers must be able to exit quickly in case of a problem
TL;DR
- A 20km ice road has opened in Estonia, connecting the islands of Saaremaa and Hiiumaa.
- The ice road was established after low temperatures allowed residents to drive across the frozen sea, bypassing ferry disruptions.
- Driving on the ice road requires adherence to specific rules: vehicles under 2.5 tonnes, specific speed ranges (below 20km/h or 40-70km/h), no stopping, and no seatbelts for quick exit.
- Specialists measure ice thickness (minimum 24cm) and maintain the road, smoothing ridges and cracks.
- This ice road is seen as both a necessity and a cultural tradition for the islanders.
- Authorities are planning to open two more ice routes linking mainland Estonia to smaller islands.