On the night of February 16-17, 2025, the Tatra Mountains experienced historically low temperatures, the coldest ever recorded on Polish territory. The thermometer plunged to -41.13°C at Litworowy Kocioł, widely recognized as Poland's coldest spot, prompting excitement among meteorological enthusiasts.
The record-breaking measurement caught the attention of weather stations across the nation. While nearby areas like Kasprowy Wierch reported slightly warmer temperatures of about -19°C, the stark difference fueled curiosity about what makes Litworowy Kocioł so frigid. This valley, also known as the "polar bowl," is surrounded by steep rock walls, effectively trapping colder air.
According to Meteoprognosis.pl, "It's the lowest temperature recorded ever on Polish territory," indicating the historical significance of the readings taken at Litworowy Kocioł. This temperature is currently under verification by the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW), which is imperative to confirm its validity and possibly establish new cold records.
The unique geological environment surrounding Litworowy Kocioł results in extremely low temperatures. The formation is categorized as a glacier bowl, which effectively retains cold air. Environmental factors such as lack of sunlight exposure due to the towering peaks of the Tatra Mountains also contribute to the frigid climate.
Studies conducted by the project "Mrozowiska," involving researchers from Adam Mickiewicz University and Tatra National Park, have focused on the meteorological phenomena occurring within this glacial environment. "The area is known to be capable of reaching lows of -50°C," explained one of the experts involved. This potential has sparked speculation about the limits of cold temperatures recorded here.
The drastic drop on February 16-17 aligns with colder air masses sweeping down from the northeast, affecting temperatures not just locally, but throughout Poland. Warnings have been issued for extremely low temperatures expected to persist across various regions.
Interestingly, the previous record for the lowest temperature recorded was noted at -41°C, back in Siedlce, 1940. Current assessments suggest the earlier records may be less reliable, as they were set during tumultuous times, likely leading to inaccurate readings.
Litworowy Kocioł serves as the only site where consistent cold air pooling facilitates readings this low and invites comparisons both regionally and historically. It has outperformed previously documented chill spots across Poland and even Europe.
Meteorologists continue to monitor the conditions, with expectations of another potentially colder night shortly to come. Alert weather forecasts remain active, with warnings issued for several provinces across the country, highlighting the need for public awareness and safety protocols against possible extreme weather conditions.
With intense scrutiny on the integrity of the data collected, both the scientific community and outdoor enthusiasts watch closely for confirmation from IMGW on whether this record will officially dethrone the historical figure from 1940.
The remarkable climatic phenomena occurring at Litworowy Kocioł exemplify the unique and often perilous weather patterns found within the Tatra Mountains.
Residents and visitors are advised to take necessary precautions when venturing out and to heed warnings about the extreme cold, which can impact health and safety. With accurate technological measurements and passionate meteorological research, the Tatra Mountains carve their name onto the climate map as champions of subzero temperatures.