Forecasts for late November indicate Moscow could be hit by a severe winter event, with winds reaching up to 17 meters per second and growing snowdrifts. A leading meteorology expert from Phobos notes a notable escalation in snowfall for the capital, something not seen in decades. The intensity of the snowfall is expected to peak during the night and early morning hours, transforming the city’s streets into a white, windy landscape as the clouds unload their burden.
Experts warn that the capital may see Christmas-like drift accumulations, pushing the snowbanks higher than usual. This surge is linked to broader atmospheric dynamics, including a Balkan-origin cyclone strengthening over the Western Black Sea, which can drive cold air southward and enhance snow production as it interacts with existing moisture in the region.
Officials emphasize that a rapid progression of weather events could move the front quickly across large distances. A forecast path suggests that an initial snow event could unfold within a day, followed by a more persistent storm system that reaches the Bryansk region a day after the capital experiences heavy snowfall. Such a pattern would mean a period of intense snowfall with potential for rapid drifts and reduced visibility in urban and suburban areas.
In terms of timing, the capital is expected to see the onset of snowfall on the evening of the initial day, with the heaviest snow and the thickest snowfall accumulation concentrated during the night and the early hours of the following morning. Residents should prepare for significant disruption, including snow-covered roads, limited vehicle mobility, and the need for caution while moving through residential and commercial districts.
Forecast models project snowfall totals reaching substantial levels, with precipitation amounts possibly reaching up to 26.5 millimeters, which would account for about half of the typical monthly total in a single event. This estimate indicates a potential for setting or approaching a local daily rainfall-like record in a snow context, underscoring the unusual intensity of the storm and the likelihood of above-average accumulation for the period. Forecast discussions highlight the possibility that this event could surpass the snow-related norms recorded since the late 1970s.
Snow depth projections are also notable. The snow cover is anticipated to increase considerably, potentially reaching around 23 centimeters in certain districts. Such accumulations would significantly exceed seasonal norms and create conditions that require heightened resilience from city services, transport operators, and residents. The development of the snowpack could influence everything from commuting patterns to school schedules and municipal maintenance planning.
Previous forecasts from the regional meteorological authorities had already indicated a drop in temperatures, with nighttime and morning temperatures slipping to subfreezing levels. The combination of cold air and heavy snowfall raises concerns about icing, snow removal operations, and the safety considerations that accompany rapidly changing winter weather in an urban environment. Citizens are advised to monitor official updates for the latest readings and any changes to advisories as the system evolves.
As the event unfolds, meteorologists stressed the importance of staying informed through reputable weather services and following local guidance on travel and safety. The coming days could require prudent preparation, including securing outdoor objects, ensuring adequate winter gear, and allowing extra travel time when navigating the city’s avenues and neighborhoods. Observers note that while such storms are not unprecedented, the forecasted combination of high winds and heavy snowfall makes this event particularly impactful for Moscow and its surroundings.
The height and movement of the snowdrifts are a central focus of the discussion, with authorities keeping a close watch on how the snowpack forms and shifts with prevailing winds. Ongoing assessments will refine the estimates for snow depth and wind strength, helping emergency services, transportation authorities, and residents respond effectively to the evolving weather conditions. An informed community understands that preparation and situational awareness are key to minimizing disruption and ensuring safety during these severe winter episodes.