Chelyabinsk Oblast braces for life-threatening –40°C Arctic freeze
A severe Arctic cold front is set to hit Chelyabinsk Oblast on January 21–22, bringing dangerously low temperatures. Forecasters warn of freezing conditions, with overnight lows plunging to –40°C in some areas. Authorities have already taken steps to protect residents as the region braces for the deep freeze.
The cold snap will arrive overnight, with temperatures in Chelyabinsk city dropping to between –30°C and –32°C. Daytime highs will barely rise, staying between –25°C and –27°C. In southern and far western parts of the oblast, daytime readings may reach –17°C, but most areas will remain far colder.
Winds will blow from the east to northeast at 2–7 metres per second, with gusts up to 10 m/s. The weather will bring partly cloudy skies, light snow, and patches of freezing drizzle, increasing the risk of icy surfaces. Some rural zones could see overnight lows between –35°C and –40°C. Municipal services in Chelyabinsk have moved to an enhanced state of readiness to handle emergencies. Ice-skating sessions at three city parks have been cancelled due to the extreme conditions. Two mobile warming centres have opened, staffed around the clock by trained rescuers for those needing shelter from the cold.
The Arctic blast will keep temperatures well below freezing for days, with little relief expected. Residents are urged to take precautions against the cold, while emergency teams remain on standby. The region’s infrastructure and public services are preparing for potential disruptions caused by the extreme weather.
