Russian weather officials project a broad pattern for the New Year period, with a majority of the country’s territory expected to sit near normal temperatures as the year turns. In particular, Moscow and the surrounding regions face a possibility of milder conditions, raising questions about how long ice might stubbornly cling to rivers and harbors in major urban centers like St. Petersburg. This forecast has been reported by the state news agency system.
Officials emphasize a mixed regional picture. While some areas may see temperatures around the typical seasonal average, others could drift above or below those norms. In the Krasnoyarsk region, Omsk, and Novosibirsk, temperatures may run near or above normal by a few degrees, whereas parts of western Siberia and nearby districts could stay several degrees below average. One regional analyst noted that temperatures could be about 4 degrees higher than normal in some zones, contrasting with 5 degrees below normal in other large swaths of the country. A separate forecast suggests the Tyumen region may experience notably cooler conditions, potentially 8–10 degrees below the seasonal norm.
Meteorological services describe a New Year’s Eve scenario in the Moscow region characterized by unusually mild air, with temperatures rising to around +2°C, while St. Petersburg could see a range from -2°C to +2°C. The broader capital area might enjoy a brief respite from the chill as the calendar flips, though local weather variability remains a factor for residents and travelers alike.
Seasonal specialists have cautioned that the year-end period may bring a mix of precipitation types. In Moscow, a period of melting and sleet is anticipated in the final days of the year, potentially contributing to slippery conditions on roads and sidewalks. Experts point to a combination of light snowfall and sleet followed by intermittent periods of melting during milder spells.
Analysts attribute these patterns to a blend of atmospheric factors, including the interplay of air masses, smoke intrusions from fires or industrial sources, and evolving fog conditions that can reduce visibility and influence local weather perception. In practical terms, residents should stay informed about daily forecasts, plan accordingly for brief windows of warmth, and prepare for rapid shifts as the weather system evolves. Observers note that even when temperatures briefly rise, rapid changes can occur with the passage of cold fronts, bringing renewed risk of frost and icy surfaces. The broader forecast also underscores the importance of staying updated through official bulletins and regional meteorological advisories. The public is advised to monitor updates, especially for those planning travel or outdoor activities during the transition into the new year, as fluctuations can be more pronounced in exposed urban and coastal zones. Attribution: official meteorological releases and regional analyses.