The upcoming weekend in Moscow is expected to unfold with a brief delay in the rain pattern, followed by Hurricane Riksa approaching the city on Sunday. Forecasters describe heavy precipitation mixing snow and rain and strong winds as the capital braces for notable temperature swings, according to Alexander Ilyin, a weather forecaster for TV channel 360.
Forecasts for Saturday indicate a light snowfall of up to 3 millimeters across the capital, with temperatures dipping between 1 and 3 degrees below zero. Winds are projected to accelerate to about 15 meters per second, creating brisk conditions that may feel notably cooler than the thermometer suggests. Residents planning outdoor activities should prepare for periods of reduced visibility and icy surfaces, especially in open areas and on elevated routes.
Sunday brings a more pronounced weather event as Muscovites may experience 2 to 4 millimeters of dense, mixed precipitation. The temperature is expected to hover around freezing, keeping sidewalks and roadways slick and potentially challenging for commuter traffic. Snow and rain in combination could accumulate in certain districts, affecting neighborhood routes and public transit schedules.
According to Ilyin, the shift in the weather pattern is tied to the departure of the stationary anticyclone over the Moscow region and the arrival of a waning Atlantic hurricane from the west, now identified as Rixa. This transition signals a change from relatively stable conditions to a more unsettled spell that could linger through the weekend, with winds continuing to influence feels-like temperatures and precipitation types.
Looking ahead, the forecast suggests a gradual cooling trend as Sunday progresses, with temperatures on Sunday night expected to fall to approximately 7 to 9 degrees below zero. The deep chill sets the stage for a cold start to the workweek, emphasizing the need for warm clothing and careful planning for early commutes. Forecasters also note a potential brief rebound in warmth by midweek, but caution that conditions could quickly shift again with evolving atmospheric patterns.
Hydrometeorology centers across the region emphasize that ice may begin to thaw at the weekend’s end, yet the onset of rain mixed with snow on Sunday remains a concern for those navigating outdoor errands and travel. The evolving picture points to a weekend where temperature contrasts will be pronounced, and residents should monitor local updates to adapt their plans accordingly.
As spring’s arrival remains uncertain, meteorologists advise keeping a close watch on daily forecasts and local advisories. The evolving system underscores how rapidly weather can shift in this region, challenging residents to balance plans with practical precautions as temperatures waver and precipitation intensifies at different times over the two days.