As the May holidays approach, a significant cold snap is forecasted across much of Russia, raising concerns for residents looking to enjoy the festivities. According to Roman Vilfand, the Scientific Director of the Hydrometeorological Center of the Russian Federation, cold weather is expected to dominate the European territory of Russia, including Moscow and surrounding regions.
Vilfand stated, "During the May holidays, the weather in the European territory of Russia will be cool, I would even say cold." This prediction aligns with reports indicating that snow remains on about 70% of the country's territory, a stark reminder of the lingering winter conditions.
In Nizhny Novgorod, the forecast for May 1st and 2nd suggests rain, with daytime temperatures barely reaching +10 to +11 degrees Celsius. Nighttime temperatures will drop to around +5 to +7 degrees Celsius, making for a chilly start to the month. On the following days, May 3rd and 4th, temperatures are expected to rise slightly, reaching +14 to +16 degrees Celsius during the day and +8 degrees Celsius at night.
May 8th is anticipated to be the warmest day of the holidays, with temperatures peaking at +19 degrees Celsius during the day and +10 degrees Celsius at night. However, the latter part of the holiday period from May 9th to 11th will see a return to cooler weather, with daytime highs of +14 to +15 degrees Celsius and nighttime lows of +7 to +8 degrees Celsius. Throughout this period, clouds will dominate the skies, with light rain expected on May 10th and 11th.
In Moscow, the situation looks similarly bleak. A cold air mass from the White Sea has swept into the city, leading to forecasts of frost and wet snow on the night of April 28th. Anatoly Tsyganov, Deputy Head of the Situation Center of the Hydrometeorological Center, noted that the coldest night will be from Sunday to Monday, with temperatures plunging to between -1 and -4 degrees Celsius. "In the Moscow region, the weather has dramatically changed; the cold air has reached Moscow and further south," he explained.
Despite the cold snap, there is a glimmer of hope for warmer weather. Starting mid-week, temperatures are expected to gradually rise, with daytime highs reaching +8 to +10 degrees Celsius by May 1st. Further warming is anticipated, with temperatures potentially reaching +10 to +15 degrees Celsius during the May holidays.
Vilfand's predictions indicate that the cold weather will not only affect Moscow but will be felt throughout the country, particularly in the center and northwestern regions where nighttime temperatures may hover around zero. In the Asian part of Russia, temperatures could drop sharply by 8 to 10 degrees, exacerbating the chilly conditions.
As residents prepare for the May holidays, the forecast raises questions about how to enjoy the festivities amidst such unseasonably cold weather. With many people planning outdoor activities, the prospect of rain and low temperatures could dampen spirits.
In light of these predictions, local authorities and meteorological services are advising residents to dress warmly and be prepared for rain and snow. The unusual weather patterns have sparked discussions among meteorologists about the implications of climate change and how it might be influencing weather patterns across Russia.
As the situation develops, residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news and weather updates. The Hydrometeorological Center will continue to monitor conditions closely, providing updates as the May holidays approach.
Overall, while the May holidays are typically a time for celebration and outdoor activities, this year's forecast suggests that Russians may need to adjust their plans and expectations as they brace for a colder than usual start to the month.
