Winter Weather Advisory in Moscow: Safety Tips and Official Forecast
Authorities in Moscow have issued warnings about an unusually cold spell greeting Christmas Day. The Emergencies Ministry, speaking from the capital’s crisis control center, detailed a forecast showing persistent subfreezing temperatures. The notice emphasizes that from January 6 through 8, daily averages will be several degrees below the climatological norm, signaling a genuine cold snap for residents and visitors alike.
Officials urge people to exercise caution with home heating. They advise against relying on electrical devices that are not rated or designed for heating, to avoid overloading electrical networks, and to ensure that heaters are never left unattended. The ministry specifically reminds households to keep children away from unattended heating equipment and to adopt safe practices when warming living spaces during the coldest days.
Meteorological authorities add context to the forecast. Roman Vilfand, the scientific director of the Russian Hydrometeorological Center, notes that right now the Moscow region is experiencing peak frost in the middle of the week, with temperatures expected to remain frigid as a new pattern forms. In a typical January cold spell, daytime readings are projected to range from around minus 14 to minus 23 degrees Celsius over the January 5–8 period, a range that underscores the need for proper layering, shelter, and energy efficiency in heating use. The prevailing trend suggests a gradual fading of the most intense frosts as the week progresses, though the cold will remain persistent for several days longer.
There were reports that a major international hub near Moscow, Sheremetyevo Airport, faced operational disruptions tied to the unusually harsh frost. Travelers are advised to stay updated on flight statuses and to plan for potential delays when weather conditions tighten, especially during the peak cold window. As always, travelers should dress in multiple insulating layers, protect extremities, and allow extra time for commutes and check-ins during such periods. [Citation: Official communications from the Emergencies Ministry and the Hydrometeorological Center]