Forecasts for Moscow indicate a pronounced winter intrusion beginning with December 4, when snowdrifts can accumulate in the city during the morning hours, accompanied by unusually deep cold over the weekend. This assessment comes from a conversation with Roman Vilfand, the scientific director of the Hydrometeorological Center, as reported by RT. Vilfand emphasized that the capital could see a fresh layer of snow, with the depth estimated between 25 and 30 centimeters by Monday, setting the stage for a notably snowy period that will influence daily life and travel plans in the city.
As December progresses, authorities expect a cooling trend to take hold in Moscow. The atmospheric pressure is anticipated to rise, a sign of stabilizing weather patterns that often accompany intense cold. By the night of December 5, Vilfand projected temperatures falling to around -15 °C in Moscow proper, with the surrounding Moscow region potentially reaching -17 °C. The cold is not expected to ease quickly; by the end of the week thermometers in the wider Moscow region could show night readings nearing -21 °C, reinforcing the need for careful preparation, winter readiness, and public advisories on heating and safety. (Source: RT press briefing with Vilfand)
Earlier forecasts from Alexander Shuvalov, head of the Meteo forecast center, warned of a sharp cold snap approaching toward the close of the week. He described the European part of the country as facing a significant frost episode that could persist at least until mid-December. Shuvalov attributed the prolonged cold to a blocking anticyclone that was advancing into Russia, delivering cold air from the continental interior and locking it in for an extended period. The idea of an obstructive anticyclone suggests a high-pressure system that suppresses storm development and traps dry, frigid air over large territories, contributing to persistent and dangerously low temperatures. (Source: Shuvalov commentary)
In light of these projections, residents and visitors to the region are advised to monitor daily updates from official meteorological services, prepare for heavy, dry snowfall, and anticipate nighttime temperatures that will demand substantial heating and reinforced insulation. The combination of snow on the ground and subfreezing air can lead to slick road conditions, reduced visibility during snowfalls, and a higher risk of frostbite and hypothermia for anyone outdoors for extended periods. Public transport and logistics may experience delays during the peak snow events, and planning for contingencies is prudent for schools, businesses, and outdoor activities. Authorities typically issue reminders to wear layered clothing, protect exposed skin, and ensure vehicles are equipped with winter tires and emergency kits. (General guidance from meteorological and public safety channels)
Reflecting on the question posed by observers about whether winter has come, the consensus from the latest forecasts is that a robust Arctic surge will dominate the early December period. The combination of active snow cover and deep cold will shape daily life across the capital region and surrounding areas. Citizens are urged to stay informed through official channels and to heed guidance as conditions evolve, recognizing that weather patterns in this season can shift rapidly with the arrival of new air masses and pressure changes. (Synthesis of official forecasts)