Forecast cautions issued as Moscow braces for heavy snow and icing
A yellow weather warning has been issued by Russia’s hydrometeorological authority for Moscow and the surrounding region, highlighting the risk of snowstorms and icing. The warning appears on the center’s official forecast page and serves as a heads-up to residents and travelers alike. (attribution: Russian Hydrometeorological Center)
On its forecast map, the agency states, Yellow – the weather is potentially dangerous, signaling that conditions could hamper daily activities and travel. (attribution: Russian Hydrometeorological Center)
The severe weather advisory for Moscow and the Moscow region is valid from 9:00 pm on February 11 through 11:00 am on February 12, outlining a narrow window when the risk may peak. (attribution: Russian Hydrometeorological Center)
Roman Vilfand, who previously served as scientific director of the Hydrometeorological Center, notes that heavy snowfall and blizzards are anticipated across Moscow and Central Russia over the upcoming weekend. His assessment points to a shift of substantial wind-driven snow, creating challenging travel conditions. (attribution: Hydrometeorological Center communications)
According to Vilfand, a combination of wind and heavy snow is expected to generate a persistent snowstorm that could continue into the night of February 12. A rebound in atmospheric pressure Sunday afternoon is forecast, with light snowfall continuing afterward. (attribution: Hydrometeorological Center communications)
Forecasters indicate that the snow event will deepen drifts, potentially raising snow levels by several centimeters—estimates place the increase in the 5 to 10 cm range during the peak snowfall period. The accumulation is likely to affect road visibility and the efficiency of snow removal efforts. (attribution: Russian weather service updates)
Yevgeny Tishkovets, a specialist at a regional weather center, corroborates the prediction of heavy snowfall in Moscow over the weekend. He notes that snow cover could grow by around 10 cm as the next week begins, reinforcing the need for caution for drivers and pedestrians alike. (attribution: Phobos weather center)
Residents are advised to monitor official updates closely, prepare for possible travel disruptions, and adjust plans to accommodate potential delays or restrictions caused by snow and icing. Local authorities may implement temporary measures to ensure safety on major routes and in public spaces. (attribution: Russian meteorological services)
In practical terms, the forecast underscores the importance of winter readiness: clearing sidewalks and driveways, ensuring safe vehicle operation with appropriate tires and equipment, and maintaining emergency supplies in homes and workplaces. The once-in-a-season heavy snow event could persist into early next week, with drifting and reduced visibility presenting ongoing hazards. (attribution: national weather advisories)
Experts emphasize that even short periods of freezing rain and sleet can create slick surfaces that complicate commuting. Travelers should plan extra time for journeys, keep a mobile phone charged for weather alerts, and follow guidance from local transport authorities. (attribution: regional weather agencies)
As the weekend unfolds, weather watchers expect the cloud cover to remain thick, keeping temperatures low and winds brisk. Snow will continue to accumulate, with fluctuations in intensity as warmer air briefly interfacing with the cold air mass. The net effect is a weather pattern that tests both infrastructure and routine travel plans. (attribution: meteorological analyses)