In Moscow, the switch from winter tires to summer tires is not just a calendar event; it hinges on weather patterns and road safety. Local authorities emphasize that drivers should plan a tire change around the time when daily temperatures consistently exceed a comfortable threshold and when forecasts show stable warm spells. Recent discussions on this topic were shared with listeners of the radio program “Moscow Speaks” by Mikhail Kalinin, who serves as vice president of the publishing house Automotive Business News and often comments on automotive safety and practical timing for tire changes. He pointed out that snowfall can still occur even in early spring, which has the potential to cause traffic disruptions if travelers attempt to rely on outdated seasonal practices. He suggested using a flexible approach that weighs current conditions against long-range weather forecasts. (Source: Moscow Speaks, automotive safety commentary)
Forecast information indicates that temperatures in the capital may fall below freezing again on a Saturday night, with a possibility of negative readings around -1°C. Kalinin argues that tire changes should align with a longer trend rather than a single day’s weather snapshot. The practical rule he cites is to switch tires only after the average daily temperature has stayed above approximately +5°C for a meaningful period. This guideline helps reduce the risk of traction issues on still-cold pavement and takes into account the variability of early spring weather. (Source: regional forecast updates)
Kalinin also notes that April has historically delivered surprises, including heavy, city-paralyzing snowfalls that have occurred despite expectations of warmer conditions. He recalls that many years see a transition window around the tenth of April, but emphasizes that drivers should not rush the change if long-range forecasts predict a reversal in cold snaps. The key takeaway is to monitor the forecast and use a gradual, evidence-based approach to tire changes rather than relying on a fixed calendar date. (Source: weather history and expert commentary)
Official guidance from Moscow’s transportation authorities, including statements attributed to the Deputy Mayor for Transport, Maxилим Ликсутов, has underscored the importance of replacing winter tires with summer tires when conditions allow. The emphasis remains on safety, road grip, and the ability to respond to sudden weather shifts without compromising overall traffic flow. The public messaging reinforces the idea that tire decisions should be informed by current weather data, road conditions, and reliable forecasts rather than a rigid schedule. (Source: Metropolitan Ministry of Transport updates)
For drivers evaluating how to select the right summer tires, guidance focuses on several practical criteria. A key factor is the tire’s composition and tread pattern, chosen to deliver optimal grip on warm, dry, and damp pavement while maintaining efficient fuel consumption. In addition, tire size compatibility with the vehicle’s suspension and load ratings, as well as speed ratings appropriate for the vehicle, are important considerations. Drivers are encouraged to inspect wear levels, ensure proper tire pressure, and rotate tires according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to extend tire life and maintain consistent performance across changing conditions. (Consumer guidance and safety best practices)
Ultimately, the decision to switch tires in Moscow rests on a combination of meteorological data, road safety assessments, and practical tire science. The overarching message from experts is clear: stay informed about long-range forecasts, assess daily average temperatures, and choose timing that offers the best balance between traction, braking performance, and longevity. By prioritizing these factors, drivers can reduce the risk of traffic disruptions caused by abrupt weather shifts and ensure safer travel through the city as spring unfolds. (Expert synthesis and safety-focused conclusions)