Severe winter weather is anticipated to grip multiple cities across Russia this January, bringing significant snowfall and plummeting temperatures. Residents of Kostroma, Tyumen, and Novosibirsk are gearing up for the full brunt of winter, as forecasts predict harsh conditions from January 20 to January 24.
Starting with Kostroma, the forecast issued by Yandex Weather indicates temperatures will fluctuate between -5 and -8 degrees Celsius, with nighttime lows dropping to -12 degrees. The biting wind, expected to reach speeds of 8.3 meters per second, will create a chilling wind chill factor, making it feel at least -18 degrees outside. Light snow is also expected to add to the winter scenery. On January 21, residents will experience continued snowfall and a notable drop in temperatures. Morning temperatures are projected at -12 degrees, plunging to between -13 and -20 degrees by evening, compelling locals to bundle up for the cold.
On January 22, another day of snowfall and persistent low temperatures is anticipated. The day will start with -13 degrees but may warm slightly to between -9 and -6 degrees through the daytime hours. Nonetheless, gusty winds from the southeast should create real-feel temperatures approaching -20 degrees. On January 23, the bitter cold relents slightly, bringing temperatures up to -4 degrees along with snowfall. The dance between cold air and light snow will return to the region by January 24, maintaining temperatures at similar levels with the expected cessation of heavy snow.
Turning to Tyumen, on January 21, the region is set to witness not only snowfall but also severe cold. Morning temperatures are set to range between -4 and -15 degrees, with harsh conditions intensifying throughout the day where highs reach -21 degrees and the comfort index plummets to -27 degrees due to wind chill. The weather office warns of cloudy skies and moderate snow, with gusts from the southwest shifting to the northwest, clocking up to 17 meters per second by afternoon. The Emergency Ministry has issued alerts for this arctic chill, especially emphasizing the northern and western districts where temperatures could drop drastically, even hitting -24 degrees at nighttime.
Novosibirsk isn’t escaping the harsh winter either. Morning skiers and workers can expect transitions from light snow at -3 degrees to somewhat milder temperatures during the day. The weather there is likely to turn severe, with heavy snowfall expected on January 22, tapering from early warm spells of up to +1 degrees to tougher evening lows of -12 degrees. On January 23, temperatures are predicted to plummet to -21 degrees amid light snow flurries, and by January 24, another snowfall will bring temperatures back down to around -26 degrees.
Interestingly, locals often refer to folk calendars for weather predictions, indicating on January 21, if there is no wind, it portends sunny weather come summer, and when clouds drift against the wind, expect snowfalls. The intertwining of traditional beliefs and scientific forecasts offers insight to those trying to navigate this harsh season.
Overall, the upcoming week appears to be significantly challenging as severe weather descends upon Kostroma, Tyumen, and Novosibirsk. Residents are advised to prepare for extreme cold and to exercise caution when traveling, as this severe winter weather shapes the lives and routines across these frigid regions.