Severe weather conditions are sweeping across Poland this week, bringing with them heavy snowfall and strong winds. The Polish meteorological authorities have warned citizens to prepare for adverse weather as the winter chill sets in, particularly starting from the night of February 12-13, 2023.
Forecasts indicate significant snowfall across various regions of Poland, including the northwest, south, north, and central areas. This harsh weather is attributed to an approaching cold atmospheric front from Germany and the Czech Republic, which is expected to reach the western part of the country and spread throughout.
By Thursday, February 13, snow is predicted not only for the west but also intensifying across the south, north, and central regions, and later extending to the east. Visibility on the roads is set to diminish due to heavy snow and strong winds. Reports from TwojaPogoda.pl highlight, "At some places, significant snowfall is expected to limit visibility on roads."
Temperatures around this time will hover around zero degrees Celsius, making the snowflakes rich and fluffy. Accumulation is anticipated to create layers of snow varying from 1 to 3 centimeters, with even higher totals of 5 centimeters expected along the coastline and around 10 centimeters in mountainous regions.
Compounding this wintry scene, wind gusts will reach speeds of 40-50 kilometers per hour, exacerbated by strong winds and resulting in snowdrifts. Said gusts will contribute significantly to lowering the 'feels-like' temperature, potentially making it feel up to 5 degrees cooler than the actual temperature as emphasized by weather reports. "Wind gusts will significantly lower the feeling of temperature, potentially by up to 5 degrees less than the ambient temperature," noted TwojaPogoda.pl.
For those planning activities, particularly with Valentine’s Day approaching, there is advisory caution. The best option might very well be to stay cozy at home and watch the snowfall outside. A representative from TwojaPogoda.pl remarked, "The best option for Valentine's evening will be to stay cozy at home and watch the snow fall outside."
The cold spell is expected to tighten its grip throughout the weekend of February 15-16, with continued wintry precipitation and temperatures dropping overnight. While the snow may not persist heavily, nighttime temperatures could plunge to around -10 degrees Celsius. The fresh snow will give way to icy conditions come Saturday and Sunday, when lows might hit -5 degrees, but expect colder readings during the early mornings and evenings.
Preparing for such weather, particularly making travel plans around Valentine’s Day, becomes even more pressing as snowy roads could present risks. For those daring to brave the outdoors, it is advised to dress warmly and perhaps reconsider long outdoor outings.
With winter landscapes dominating Poland's scenery, both citizens and visitors will have to navigate the challenges posed by this severe winter weather as they settle for cozy evenings and warm gatherings to escape the biting cold.