In Moscow this week, the weather will move through a mix of conditions, gradually yielding to thaws, rain, and the shift from winter to early spring by the week’s end. The forecast comes from Alexander Shuvalov, head of the Meteo forecast center, who spoke with 360 TV channel to lay out the coming days and the pattern to watch as temperatures swap coats from bitter cold to milder air.
Forecast discussions indicate two days of cold weather will linger in the capital, with Tuesday and Wednesday marking the coldest stretch. Yet on Wednesday the atmosphere will begin to shift: a warm front from the west will ease the air, light snow could appear in the afternoon, and temperatures will rise as the day unfolds. The transition starts subtly, with the smallest changes often showing up as a hint in the sky before the warmth becomes more noticeable.
From February 22 into February 23, conditions in Moscow are expected to warm further. Rain mixed with sleet and snow is anticipated on Thursday, illustrating typical late winter fluctuations. By Friday, the thermometer is projected to hover around 0 to plus 2 degrees Celsius, offering some relief from the recent chill while keeping the reality of slippery surfaces in mind.
Looking toward the weekend, Shuvalov notes that the pattern will bring a blend of milder temperatures with occasional rain, resulting in daytime readings around plus 1 to plus 3 degrees. This combination often creates a distinct sense of spring in the air, even as the city remains under a late season weather spell. In this context, the transition from winter to spring is expected to proceed with relative ease, marked by alternating sun and precipitation that gradually reduces frost intensity.
Nevertheless, the meteorologist cautioned that this week’s shift in Moscow does not signal the immediate onset of full spring. Across other regions of the country, there is a risk that rather than melting away winter, stubborn frosts will persist, with temperatures falling as low as minus 20 degrees Celsius. These contrasts highlight the uneven pace of seasonal change and the importance of staying prepared for varied conditions within a single week.
Experts emphasize caution about the broader seasonal timeline. Evgeniy Tishkov, an analyst at the Phobos weather center, suggested that while the end of February in Moscow is unlikely to bring a deep chill, the start of true spring remains uncertain. Observers in the capital should anticipate a mix of mild days and cooler spells, rather than a sudden, definitive warm-up.
Earlier, the Hydrometeorology center issued warnings about a potentially challenging flood season next spring. The forecast underscores a need for preparedness across regions, with attention to how rapidly weather patterns can swing from heavy precipitation to rapid runoff as temperatures rise. Keeping track of local updates remains essential for residents planning outdoor activities, commutes, or outdoor work in the weeks ahead. [Citation: Hydrometeorology center]