From January 23, Moscow is expected to see air temperatures climb toward near freezing and a noticeable drop in atmospheric pressure. This assessment comes from Roman Vilfand, the scientific director of the Hydrometeorological Center of the Russian Federation, as reported by TASS.
Vilfand explained that the capital will still be chilly on January 22. Overnight temperatures are projected to hover from -16°C to -18°C, while daytime readings should range from -6°C to -8°C.
He added that the temperature would begin to rise in the evening, creeping toward zero on Tuesday. The shift may bring a more forgiving feel to the air as the night hours approach the thaw.
For the early hours of January 23, the forecast suggests temperatures in Moscow will be between -7°C and -9°C. During the day, residents can expect the thermometer to settle around -1°C to -3°C.
The meteorologist also cautioned about a notable drop in atmospheric pressure, anticipating a decline of 10-15 mm Hg. Vilfand linked this change to the advancing eastern edge of a hurricane approaching the capital.
The outlook further notes that Moscow will see a temperature rise to approximately +1°C on January 24, before dipping again the following day to around -5°C. The shifting pattern reflects a back-and-forth between brief warm moments and colder intervals.
Short-term snowfall is anticipated in the city later in the week. A hurricane is expected to move toward the capital in the middle of the week, with wind speeds rising to about 15-17 m/s and bringing a brisk, gusty regime to the streets.
Vilfand also highlighted that, starting January 26, a revival of winter conditions is likely. Weekend nights could see temperatures between -13°C and -18°C, while daytime values may settle between -6°C and -11°C, creating a clear contrast with daytime warmth during the day the preceding period.
Additionally, the height of snowdrifts measured in the early hours in Moscow has surpassed the seasonal norm by roughly 1.5 times, underscoring the significant accumulation already observed and signaling continued snow cover as temperatures remain variable in the coming days.
Throughout this period, residents and travelers are advised to prepare for rapid shifts in weather. The combination of rapidly falling and rising temperatures, stronger winds, and periodic snowfall will shape daily routines, transportation conditions, and outdoor activities. Local authorities may issue advisories reflecting the evolving conditions as the week progresses, and weather services will continue monitoring atmospheric pressure changes linked to the approaching storm system.
In summary, Moscow faces a period of fluctuating temperatures with a cold start on January 22, a warming trend toward January 23–24, and renewed chill toward the end of the week, all amid a noticeable pressure drop and episodic snow. The evolving pattern will influence daily life, commuting, and winter preparedness as residents adapt to the forecasted shifts in wind, snow, and temperature.