A top meteorologist from the Phobos center reports an exceptionally frigid start to the season. On Christmas morning, Moscow recorded a brutal -24.2°C, and as the new workweek begins, the cold is expected to ease gradually. The forecast notes this update in a recent communications channel used for weather alerts.
Data gathered in the early hours of January 7 show that the VDNKh meteorological station registered -24.2°C, Balchug reported -22.4°C, Moscow State University noted -23.3°C, and Tushino measured -25.3°C. This sharp cold remains well below the long-term climate norms for the region at this time of year, signaling an atypical deep freeze for one of the world’s major capitals.
Within the greater Moscow area, Klin near the city center experienced frost extreme enough to reach -30.4°C, underscoring the heterogeneity of nighttime temperatures across the metropolitan area during this spell of cold.
The forecaster added that the night between January 7 and January 8 is expected to stay very cold, with a gradual relief anticipated as the week progresses and normal daily activity resumes.
Another authority, the former scientific director of the Russian Hydrometeorological Center, reiterated that the daytime temperatures in the Moscow region are forecast to rise to about -10°C in the first workdays after the New Year holidays. This marks a noticeably milder day profile after a string of subzero nights.
Officials from the Russian Emergencies Ministry had warned residents and visitors about the ongoing unusually low temperatures on Christmas Day. Their guidance stressed practical steps to minimize risk during extreme cold, including careful use of electrical heating and avoiding overloading networks in homes and workplaces. The advisory also cautioned against leaving heating devices unattended and emphasized the importance of ensuring that all electrical equipment is suited for cold weather use. These cautions align with public health and safety priorities during periods of harsh winter conditions.
In related health news, medical professionals have repeatedly highlighted that winter weather can increase cardiovascular risk. The combination of very cold air and the heightened physical stress of daily activity can elevate the likelihood of heart-related events in susceptible individuals. The advice remains to monitor health, stay warm, and seek prompt medical attention if any warning signs arise during severe cold spells.
Overall, the cold spell demonstrates a pattern of extreme overnight temperatures across the area, paired with daytime warming that is expected to resume as routine life returns after the holidays. Forecast updates continue to stress readiness for cold exposure, safe heating practices, and attention to personal health during this winter period.