Forecasts for Moscow and the surrounding region point to a notable warm-up on Saturday, February 17. The national weather agency, as cited by TASS, notes that the day will bring a marked rise in temperatures across the Moscow region. In the city itself, thermometers are expected to hover around minus one to minus three degrees Celsius, while in the broader region readings could range from minus five to zero degrees. This shift follows the arrival of warm air masses moving from the Atlantic and skirting along the eastern edge of the approaching low-pressure system, which will place Moscow in the warm current’s path.
Earlier updates indicated that the weekend would begin with a brief lull in rain, followed by the arrival of a stormy system named Rixa, which is forecast to reach the capital on Sunday. The weather system will likely bring heavy precipitation in the form of both snow and rain, along with strong winds. Observations for Saturday show a relatively light snow event, with no more than about 3 millimeters expected to accumulate in the city, and temperatures remaining between 1 and 3 degrees below freezing. Wind gusts could reach around 15 meters per second, contributing to a perception of chill despite the otherwise warm trend developing shortly after.
Meteorologists emphasize that the coming warm spell is linked to the intrusion of milder air from western Atlantic sources, which will interact with local atmospheric patterns to produce the observed rise in temperatures. The shift in weather will be noticeable across the region, as a break in precipitation might be followed by more unsettled conditions as the system moves along its track. The overall pattern suggests a transition period before temperatures stabilize at higher values for several days, depending on the evolution of the cyclone and the movement of air masses aloft.
In the days ahead, residents are advised to monitor official forecasts for updates on precipitation type and intensity, as well as wind speeds, which can influence transport and outdoor activities. Officials remind the public that rapid changes in weather can occur with coastal storms influencing inland climate, and that local advisories may reflect adjustments to precipitation totals and temperature swings. As of now, the weekend is shaping up to bring a mix of wintry mix and potentially milder air following the pulse of cold air that characterized the preceding days.
Experts note that during transitional periods like this, it is common to experience fluctuations in daily high and low temperatures. The upcoming sequence may include sudden warming during the daytime hours, followed by a quick return to cooler conditions at night if the system’s dynamics shift. For those planning travel or outdoor activities, staying informed through official weather updates remains essential to ensure safety and preparedness against changing conditions, including gusty winds and shifting precipitation patterns.
Overall, the forecast points to a weekend marked by a juxtaposition of light snows and a broader warm trend, with the possibility of dry spells interspersed with banded precipitation. As the Atlantic-influenced air mass advances, the Moscow region is expected to experience a temporary rise in temperatures that will alter the typical late-winter palette, presenting an unusual but manageable weather episode for residents and visitors alike. The broader message from meteorologists is one of cautious anticipation, with emphasis on monitoring updates as the air mass evolves and the storm track becomes clearer according to continuing observations.