Black Sea coast braces for Arctic blast after unseasonable warmth
Unseasonably warm weather will sweep across the Black Sea coast in late January. But a sudden Arctic blast is set to follow, bringing heavy snow and plummeting temperatures by early February. Forecasters warn of freezing rain, black ice and the coldest nights in months ahead.
Meteorologists predict a sharp contrast in conditions over the coming days. From Friday through the weekend, temperatures may reach as high as 9–14°C (48–57°F), offering a brief spell of mild weather. Alexander Shuvalov, head of the Meteo Forecasting Center, described this late-January warmth as unusual for the season.
By February 2, an Arctic air mass will push southward, blanketing the region in snow. The cold snap will intensify quickly, with the ground already covered in a protective layer. This should help shield plants from the worst of the freeze.
The most severe chill is expected on the night of February 4–5, with lows dropping to –10 to –15°C (14–5°F). Even the typically milder Black Sea coast could see subzero temperatures of –5°C (23°F). Alongside the cold, freezing rain and widespread black ice will create hazardous conditions.
Weather updates are being shared through channels like meteorologist Duncan Wingen's Telegram feed. He recently reported extreme wind gusts of 145 km/h during a storm on Mallorca, highlighting the volatility of current weather patterns.
The sudden shift from warmth to Arctic cold will bring significant risks. Freezing rain and black ice could disrupt travel, while the sharp drop in temperatures may test infrastructure. Residents are advised to prepare for the worst of the cold snap by February 4–5.
