On Sunday, January 1, Poland reported a new temperature record. The Republican Institute of Meteorology and Water Management confirmed the milestone, noting clear readings across major cities and regions. In Warsaw, within the Okęcie district, the thermometer reached a remarkable +18.9 degrees Celsius at noon. Earlier in the day, at 3:00 a.m. in Hlukholazy in the Opole Voivodeship, readings showed +18.7 C, underscoring a widespread warm spell for the nation.
Historically, the January record remains the +18.6 C measured in Pszczyna in Lower Silesia in 1999. The current sequence of unusually warm days thus reshapes the January climate profile for Poland and adds a new chapter to the seasonal weather record book.
Meteorologists have suggested that tropical air currents coming from the south could be responsible for the unusually high January warmth. By lifting temperatures beyond typical norms for this month, these air masses can reduce the usual January chill and contribute to extended periods of mild, wet weather across much of the country. Experts also anticipate that this combination of warm spells and rainfall may persist into the first half of the coming week, keeping daily highs well above seasonal averages in several districts.
In related regional notes, observers across other parts of Europe have tracked similar patterns. The shift toward higher than normal temperatures during what is typically a winter month aligns with broader climate signals observed in recent seasons. Meteorologists emphasize that while warm spells can bring pleasant days, they can also come with increased rainfall and Arctic air reversals later in the season, creating a variable and sometimes rapidly changing weather landscape.
As Poland continues to monitor the situation, local authorities and residents are advised to stay prepared for variable conditions. Roads can become slick after rainfall, and quick changes in temperature can affect daily planning. Seismically influenced weather components, atmospheric moisture transport, and regional topography all play a role in shaping the day to day temperature picture. The current observations contribute to a broader understanding of how warm air intrusions interact with Poland’s varied geography, from the plains to the hills and higher elevations.
The unusual warmth also resonates with discussions about climate trends on a continental scale. Scientists compare recent months with historical datasets to assess how often such January warmth appears and what it signals about longer term shifts. These analyses help forecast models adjust to evolving patterns and improve guidance for agriculture, energy consumption, and public health planning. While the present readings excite curiosity and provide data for climate research, they also remind residents to remain mindful of potential weather fluctuations in the weeks ahead.