Moscow Braces for Winter: Heavy Snowfall Expected This Weekend
Muscovites can expect a significant change in weather as forecasters predict the arrival of winter this weekend. After recent rains, the capital is set to be blanketed in snow, marking the onset of meteorological winter. Leading meteorologist Evgeny Tishkovets from the Phobos weather center shared insights via his Telegram channel, indicating that a powerful Balkan cyclone named 'Caetano' will bring heavy wet snow to the region.
On Saturday, November 23, residents will wake up to a snowy landscape, with snow accumulation expected to reach 4-6 cm in the city. In the western parts of the Moscow region, snowdrifts could be as high as 9-14 cm, creating conditions suitable for the opening of the ski season. Tishkovets emphasized that the snowfall will be significant enough to last through the winter months.
Weather Advisory and Safety Precautions
As the cyclone approaches, the weather is expected to turn cloudy with precipitation in the form of snow and sleet beginning late Friday night. Tatyana Pozdnyakova, chief specialist at Meteonovosti, corroborated this forecast, predicting 7-12 mm of precipitation over 12 hours, particularly in western regions. By Saturday morning, a snow cover of 5-10 cm is anticipated, with additional snowfall throughout the day.
In light of the impending severe weather, the Ministry of Emergency Situations has issued an emergency warning for Moscow. Gusty winds, reaching up to 15 m/s, are expected alongside the snowfall, which may lead to hazardous conditions. Authorities have advised motorists to exercise caution, maintain safe distances, and avoid parking near trees. Pedestrians are urged to steer clear of billboards and unstable structures, ensuring safety during the winter weather.