On Tuesday, January 21, Moscow is forecast to see temperatures drop to minus five degrees Celsius, according to the Russian Hydrometeorological Center. The forecast emphasizes a crisp air mass that sweeps in from the north, bringing a stark contrast to recent mild spells. Forecast models rely on a blend of ground observations, satellite data, and atmospheric simulations to predict how cold air will move through the region and how it will interact with local conditions. Residents should expect a clear to partly cloudy sky, with limited chances of precipitation. The day is likely to feel sharp and dry, with visibility unaffected by mist or fog, but the sidewalks could be slick as surfaces freeze overnight. The center’s guidance highlights that such negative temperatures are common in mid-winter, particularly when a high-pressure system settles over northern Europe and nudges Polar air toward the capital. Local authorities might issue travel advisories if icy patches present a slipping risk on major routes. In practical terms, people planning outdoor activities on Tuesday should dress in multiple layers, cover extremities, and allow extra time for travel.
According to the latest bulletin, the capital will see partly cloudy conditions with little to no precipitation. That means the sky could show patches of sun interspersed with clouds, but snow showers are unlikely on Tuesday. Icy patches are the main hazard for pedestrians and drivers, making traction critical on city streets and sidewalks. Daytime temperatures are forecast to hover between minus three and minus five degrees, which means a notable chill that persists even with sunlight. Atmospheric pressure is expected around 758 millimeters of mercury, a value that accompanies steady winter conditions and can influence how cold the air feels. Winds will shift from the north to the southeast, blowing at speeds of about 3 to 8 meters per second, which can create a wind chill effect and make the air feel colder than the thermometer reads. Overnight into Wednesday, the temperature may drop further to minus nine degrees, with southeast winds continuing and a light snow event possible. Snowfall during the night would be light and likely accumulate only briefly, while the pressure stays in the same range, contributing to a consistently wintry feel across the city.
Earlier, Roman Vilfand, the scientific director of the Russian Hydrometeorological Center, commented on the approaching changes in Moscow’s weather. He indicated that a noticeable warming trend would arrive around January 24, signaling a shift away from the peak of the current cold spell. Forecasters expect Friday’s high to reach about plus one degree, a modest rise that sets the stage for further warmth over the weekend. The warming is expected to continue, with daytime temperatures potentially climbing to around plus four degrees by the end of the weekend. In practical terms, residents could experience more comfortable mornings, with the commute slightly easier as the air becomes more breathable and the snow begins to melt in patches. The forecast also calls for a small addition of snow on Wednesday, January 22, though meteorologists anticipate it will melt as milder air filters in and weakens the snowfall intensity. By the end of the week, the city could see a nuanced mix of sun and clouds as temperatures stabilize in mild ranges for January.
Earlier reports touched on a question that many residents ask as winter grows longer: how do people cope with winter allergies? While cold air does not trigger allergies in the same way as spring pollen, some people experience irritation from dry air, dust, or mold in closed spaces. Health sources suggest keeping indoor air clean, using humidifiers to manage indoor humidity, and seeking medical advice if allergy symptoms worsen during cold snaps. The forecast’s broader context shows how weather patterns, even when cold, influence daily routines, health decisions, and commutes. With paths becoming slick and wind gusts sometimes sharpening, staying prepared is wise. The coming days offer a practical reminder: check forecasts, layer up, and plan for weather-driven changes in travel times and outdoor activity. In this sense, the city’s weather narrative is not just about numbers; it shapes habits, safety, and comfort for many people.