Muscovites were warned about a sharp frost that could plunge temperatures to as low as minus 30 degrees Celsius on the night of January 13. The alert was issued through the official Telegram channel of the Moscow municipal services complex, signaling a citywide emphasis on protecting residents from extreme cold. In practical terms, this means Moscow is mobilizing every available resource to keep essential services functioning and to reduce exposure risk for the public during the coldest hours of the year.
City authorities stated that services would operate in an enhanced mode to ensure continuity of critical infrastructure. Life support systems, including heating, electricity, and water supply, are under heightened supervision to mitigate any potential disruption caused by the severe cold. Moscow Deputy Mayor Pyotr Biryukov outlined that emergency teams from dispatch services, engineering enterprises, and district administrations are on duty around the clock, while contingency plans for power generation and emergency fuel reserves are being prepared to respond rapidly to any incident. The goal is to maintain safe living conditions for residents and to prevent outages that could endanger health or well-being during prolonged cold spells.
Residents were advised to minimize outdoor exposure as much as possible. The cooling systems in many homes and institutions are already operating at peak capacity, and the temperature management across facilities is being closely monitored to prevent equipment failures that could exacerbate hardship during subfreezing conditions. Public health officials emphasize practical steps to reduce the risk of cold-related injuries, such as dressing in layers, covering extremities, and staying indoors during the coldest periods. Local authorities also remind people that heating efficiency matters and encourage checks on windows, doors, and insulation to limit energy waste and maintain comfortable, safe indoor environments.
Forecasts indicate this cold snap may be followed by a brief period of unusual warmth over the weekend, before a potential return to cold temperatures. For people planning outdoor activities, experts advise tracking daily temperatures, wind chill, and the duration of outdoor time. Even a short exposure to extreme cold can be challenging for the body, particularly for older adults and individuals with chronic conditions. Preparedness is key to staying healthy and safe during fluctuating winter weather.
Medical professionals have highlighted the ways sudden weather shifts can affect health, especially for individuals with cardiovascular diseases. Sudden drops in temperature can cause blood vessels to constrict, raising blood pressure and increasing the workload on the heart. Clinicians recommend that patients adhere to prescribed medications, keep emergency contacts handy, and consult their healthcare provider if they notice chest pain, dizziness, or unusual shortness of breath during cold spells. It is prudent for people with heart conditions to avoid strenuous outdoor activity in freezing conditions and to seek warmer environments if symptoms arise. Community health resources are available to support those who may need assistance in accessing care or shelter during severe cold episodes, and residents are encouraged to reach out to local services if they need guidance or help staying safe.
[citation Moscow municipal services complex; public safety guidance]