Forecasts issued for mid-March indicate a mix of wintry and early spring conditions for Moscow. On March 16, residents and visitors should expect sleet and rain along with temperatures rising to near freezing, around plus five degrees Celsius, according to the Hydrometeorological Center of the Russian Federation. The day carries a clear warning about black ice forming on road surfaces, a reminder for pedestrians and drivers to take extra care while navigating streets and sidewalks.
By the night of March 17, temperatures in the capital are anticipated to dip to as low as minus one degree Celsius, with wind speeds ranging from 3 to 8 meters per second. Atmospheric pressure is projected to be around 746 millimeters of mercury, a detail of interest to those monitoring barometric trends for planning outdoor activities and travel arrangements.
In the Moscow region, the afternoon of March 16 will see air temperatures from zero to plus five degrees Celsius. As night approaches on March 17, temperatures could fall further to minus four degrees, bringing continued cool conditions and potential for slick surfaces after sunsets. Local travelers and residents should consider layering clothing and staying informed about rapidly changing conditions during these transitions.
Historically, weather forecasters have noted shifts in the snow and precipitation patterns as spring approaches. The scientific director of the Russian Hydrometeorological Center, Roman Vilfand, described the recent weather as developing along a spring scenario. He observed that rainfall plays a significant role in the rapid melting of snow in the capital, a trend that can alter daily planning. Vilfand also cautioned against assuming that clear skies and warmth signal the immediate start of a snow-free season. He emphasized that precipitation, in various forms, remains a factor worth tracking as temperatures fluctuate and spring begins to take hold.
Earlier assessment from Evgeny Tishkovets, a well-known weather forecaster, suggested Moscow could experience daytime highs approaching eight degrees. However, he warned that a cold front expected to arrive on March 17 might bring short-lived, heavy rain and a drop in temperatures to a range of minus two to plus three degrees. Such swings underscore the need for flexible plans, especially for outdoor activities and those with sensitivity to cold or damp conditions.
Practical guidance for residents and visitors centers on preparation and cautious movement. With the possibility of black ice on night surfaces and the likelihood of mixed precipitation, it is wise to inspect footwear and vehicle tires, adjust travel schedules to avoid peak traffic during adverse weather, and stay tuned to updates from the national meteorological services. The latest data continues to show a pattern of alternating rain and cold, a hallmark of late-season weather that commonly keeps streets unpredictable. In these circumstances, small measures can make a big difference in safety and comfort while commuting or enjoying time outdoors. Ongoing monitoring from the Hydrometeorological Center and regional weather offices remains essential for anyone planning near-term activities in Moscow and the surrounding region. The shifts described by Vilfand and Tishkovets illustrate how quickly conditions can evolve during March, reinforcing the value of staying informed as spring unfolds.