On May 2, 2025, residents of Moscow faced a dramatic shift in weather after experiencing unusually warm temperatures. The Hydrometeorological Center announced a significant cooling trend, predicting temperatures to drop below the seasonal norm, with night frosts and even snowfall expected. Just days prior, the city basked in warmth with temperatures soaring to 27 degrees Celsius. However, as the cyclone and its atmospheric front moved eastward, the capital braced for a return to winter-like conditions.
The forecast indicated that on May 2, temperatures in Moscow would range between 8 and 10 degrees Celsius, while regions surrounding the capital could see highs between 6 and 10 degrees. Winds from the northwest were predicted to blow at speeds of 6 to 11 m/s, with gusts reaching up to 17 m/s. By the evening, atmospheric pressure was expected to rise to 748 mm Hg, with relative humidity hovering around 50 to 60 percent.
Despite the less-than-ideal weather, the general fluctuations in meteorological parameters were not deemed extreme. Experts noted that while the conditions might lead to discomfort, they should not pose serious health risks. However, the psychological impact of such abrupt weather changes cannot be overlooked. "Our mood and psychological state directly depend on the weather," said meteorologist Nadezhda Aleshina from Meteonovosti. She added that even in the absence of physical ailments, individuals might experience general malaise, weakness, headaches, or unexpected spikes in blood pressure.
Particularly vulnerable were individuals with respiratory conditions, such as asthma, who might find it difficult to cope with the increased humidity and lower temperatures. Joint pain could also worsen under these conditions, prompting health experts to recommend that residents prepare adequately for the upcoming changes.
As the city prepared for the colder weather, officials urged residents to remain vigilant. The Main Directorate of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Russia recommended that both locals and visitors exercise caution. Motorists were advised to reduce their speed, maintain safe distances from other vehicles, and avoid sudden maneuvers. Furthermore, parking near trees and unstable structures was discouraged due to the risk of falling branches and debris.
On the night of May 2, heavy snow began falling at midnight, leading to significant disruptions. Sheremetyevo and Vnukovo airports reported heavy snowfall, and by the morning, over 26,000 residents in the Moscow region were left without electricity due to the wet snow. Governor Andrei Vorobyov confirmed that more than 200 emergency teams were deployed to clear roads and restore power.
In light of these adverse conditions, the government organized compensatory bus routes to assist stranded passengers, particularly in the Rizhsky and Savelovsky directions, where train services faced delays. The forecast for May 3 included light rain and temperatures rising to around 13 degrees Celsius, providing a brief respite from the harsh conditions.
As the city navigated through this unexpected cold snap, residents were reminded of the importance of staying informed about weather updates. Regularly checking resources from the Hydrometeorological Center would ensure they remained aware of any changes in the forecast and could adjust their plans accordingly.
While the weather may have taken a turn for the worse, it did not completely deter Muscovites from enjoying the city's parks, albeit with a bit more caution. The forecasted conditions were not extreme, and many took to the streets, umbrellas in hand, ready to embrace the unpredictable spring weather.
As the days progressed, the city remained on high alert, with authorities closely monitoring the situation and providing updates as necessary. Residents were encouraged to keep their spirits high, reminding themselves that this, too, shall pass, and warmer days would inevitably return.
