On Sunday, December 17, Moscow is expected to experience a mild change in the weather as temperatures rise above freezing, according to RIA News reports from Roman Vilfand, the scientific director of the Russian Hydrometeorological Center. The forecast points to a pleasant day for the city, with the air warming and surfaces feeling noticeably milder than the deep chill that often defines mid-December in the capital. This shift brings a distinct weekend tone and offers residents a short break from the persistent late autumn cold that has lingered in recent weeks.
Temperatures above 0°C are also anticipated on Monday, December 18, extending the mild spell by another 24 hours. If this trend holds, Moscow would enjoy a gentler start to the workweek, a welcome relief for commuters and outdoor activities alike. Meteorologists stress that the warmth will be modest, hovering near the freezing point rather than signaling a broad warm-up across the region. The pattern suggests a transitional period in which nights stay chilly while daytime readings stay near or just above zero degrees Celsius.
Vilfand noted that daytime temperatures may rise by roughly one degree on Sunday, though nighttime cooling will temper the warmth. Practically, residents should expect temperatures to fall back toward negative values after sunset, with the air turning crisp again as evening arrives. The forecast highlights the diurnal swing typical of Moscow winters, where daytime warmth can feel temporary before frosty nights return. The bottom line remains that daytime thaw is possible, but the city should brace for a return to colder conditions once night falls.
Experts also highlight snow conditions as a notable element of the forecast. Snowdrifts in Moscow are projected to reach about 40 to 45 centimeters this weekend, a figure that could surpass historical records from 1919 and 1941. Such a development would have practical implications for municipal services, transportation, and daily life, especially for those navigating streets after fresh snowfall or during persistent slush. The combination of a daytime thaw and ongoing winter snow could produce a mix of wet surfaces and white accumulations, affecting travel times and safety across the city.
Earlier in the week, Mikhail Leus of the Phobos meteorological center spoke of a significant atmospheric event that might influence weekend weather. He described a hurricane-like system named Vanya that could approach Moscow at the end of the workweek, bringing additional snow and increasing snowdrifts toward half a meter. The arrival of Vanya would add dramatic texture to the already complex winter pattern, potentially intensifying snowfall rates and altering the expected snow cover for several days. Observers are watching closely to see how such a system interacts with local topography and existing cold air to shape overall accumulation and wind patterns that may accompany the snow.
In parallel, another forecast from Shuvalov, a forecast specialist, suggested that the frequency of natural disasters in Russia could rise in the near term. This broader context underscores the importance of preparedness and timely information as weather patterns shift. While safety and resilience remain central, the evolving scenario also reflects how climate variability can present a mix of milder spells and sudden intensification in quick succession, especially in northern regions and major cities like Moscow. The commentary from Shuvalov and other experts emphasizes the need for ongoing monitoring and clear practical guidance for residents, drivers, and city planners dealing with rapid daily changes in temperature and snowfall.
As the period unfolds, the public is advised to stay tuned to official forecasts for updates on daytime temperatures, nighttime lows, and snowfall trajectories. The Moscow forecast points to a temporary thaw in the coming days, followed by a return to colder conditions as the week winds down. The evolving snow profile will continue to influence transportation patterns, road maintenance efforts, and the everyday rhythm of city life, demanding vigilance from commuters and coordinated responses from municipal authorities. By tracking these signals, residents can make informed decisions about travel plans, outdoor activities, and practical steps needed to adapt to shifting weather conditions while enjoying the brief local warmth that softens a season usually known for its rigidity.