In Moscow, Epiphany on January 19 is forecast to begin with milder conditions that could lead to noticeable melting of snow. Forecasts from the Russian Hydrometeorological Center indicate a day that starts unseasonably warm before cooling later, giving residents a curious mix of thaw and change. The information aligns with updates from the center, which tracks how air masses and pressure patterns unfold across the capital during this winter ritual day.
On Friday, temperatures are expected to rise roughly four degrees above typical January values, placing daytime readings in the range of -4°C to +1°C. This swing will soften the usual chill and may create slippery surfaces where snow remains. People planning outdoor activities should prepare for periods of thaw eddies, where patches of water or slush can form in shaded places or along open exposures. Road crews and city services typically monitor such shifts closely to manage safety and mobility as the urban landscape responds to the brief warm spell.
Nonetheless, meteorologists warn that Epiphany night could bring heavier snowfall in certain locations. Night temperatures are projected to hover between -3°C and -5°C, with some areas potentially dipping as low as -8°C during the coldest intervals. The resulting mix of fresh powder on a thawing ground can create tricky driving and walking conditions, especially on bridges, overpasses, and untreated surfaces. Residents are advised to wear appropriate footwear and to be mindful of drifting snow that can accumulate in wind-prone zones.
Roman Vilfand, the scientific director of the center, noted that a low atmospheric pressure system is expected to prevail through the workweek, with readings around 730 to 740 mmHg. Such pressure patterns often accompany shifting weather fronts, influencing temperature swings and precipitation tendencies across Moscow. The pattern suggests a period of unsettled but manageable weather, where brief fluctuations in wind and temperature may punctuate the daily routine rather than impose a prolonged deep freeze.
Earlier forecasts from the Hydrometeorological Center described a spell of cloudy skies with light snowfall and intermittent icing in parts of Moscow during January 16. Daytime temperatures were anticipated to range from -3°C to -1°C, while nighttime lows could plunge to -10°C. The contrast between daytime mildness and nighttime frost underscores the classic winter pattern in the region, where cloud cover and moisture interact with air masses to produce episodic snowfall and surface slickness.
Previously, some meteorologists, including Shuvalov, indicated that the frequency of natural hazards could rise over the coming period in Russia. This outlook reflects ongoing concerns about weather variability and its impact on infrastructure, transportation, and daily life. The evolving forecasts emphasize the importance of preparedness, flexible plans for outdoor activities, and prudent arrangements for heating, road maintenance, and public safety as residents navigate the changing scenarios typical of mid-winter in the capital region.