Cold Snap Approaches Russia as Winter Nears
Meteorologists in Russia are warning citizens of an impending cold snap expected by the end of this week, with temperatures plummeting to as low as -5°C. Roman Vilfand, the scientific director of the Hydrometeorological Center, indicated that the transition into the pre-winter phase has finally begun. This period marks the shift from autumn to winter, bringing with it a notable drop in temperatures and the possibility of snow.
Initially, the week will start with unseasonably warm weather, with temperatures ranging from +6°C to +10°C, which is about 3.5 to 4 degrees above the normal range. However, a significant change is anticipated in the latter half of the week as colder air masses move into the region. By Thursday, temperatures are expected to decrease to between +6°C and +8°C, followed by a further drop starting Friday, where night temperatures may reach 0°C to -5°C, and daytime temperatures hover around freezing.
Precipitation is also on the forecast, with the potential for rain, sleet, and snow starting Friday and continuing through the weekend. Vilfand specifically noted that Moscow will experience deteriorating weather conditions, with light rain and wet snow expected. While heavy snowfall is not anticipated, the conditions may lead to slippery roads and less than pleasant weather.
Moscow's Weather Outlook
The deputy head of the Roshydromet situation center, Anatoly Tsygankov, corroborated Vilfand's predictions, stating that a cyclone is currently influencing the European part of Russia, leading to cloudy conditions with rain. He emphasized that the weather will remain under the cyclone's influence, resulting in a mix of rain and wet snow by the week's end.
For the upcoming days, the forecast indicates cloudy skies with light rain expected during the day and nighttime temperatures fluctuating between +1°C and +6°C. As the week progresses, the temperature will continue to drop, with gusty winds reaching up to 17 m/s. By Sunday, November 3, the coldest temperatures are predicted, with nighttime lows potentially dropping to -3°C in some areas, and daytime highs lingering around 0°C to +5°C, along with intermittent snowfall.
Expected Snowfall and Weather Impacts
Forecasters have highlighted that the northeast of Moscow, particularly areas towards Ivanovo and Kostroma, may experience the highest likelihood of snowfall. In the capital, while snow is expected to fall, it may quickly melt, leading to temporary snow cover rather than a sustained accumulation. The anticipated weather changes are a reminder of the swift transition into winter conditions, urging residents to prepare for colder temperatures and potential travel disruptions due to slippery conditions.
As the week unfolds, the public is advised to stay updated on weather forecasts and exercise caution when traveling during the expected cold snap.
