Snow on Vidzeme was spotted in the morning of May 16th
News Article: Unusual Weather Patterns Forecasted for Latvia
Latvia is bracing itself for an unusual weather pattern this week, as short-term rain, hail, and heavy rain and sleet are expected in Riga, and sunny days with afternoon and evening showers are forecasted for the south-east of the country.
In Riga, residents can expect a drop in air temperature to 10 degrees Celsius in the evening, accompanied by light and variable winds. The city is also at risk of hail during the short-term rain, making for a chilly and unpredictable few days.
Meanwhile, the south-east of Latvia will enjoy sunny days where the clouds become less dense and the sun shines during the day. However, these regions should prepare for short-term rain in the afternoon and evening. The air temperature will rise to a comfortable 12-14 degrees Celsius in this region.
A temporary snow cover is expected in some places in the southern part of Vidzeme and near Riga. This unexpected snowfall is a rare occurrence for spring, as Latvia typically experiences a temperate maritime climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are commonly cold with frequent snowfall, while spring is a transitional season with generally mild temperatures and moderate rainfall. Snowfall is typical in winter but less usual and generally unexpected in spring.
The Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre (LVGMC) has issued a yellow warning for heavy rain, with precipitation reaching up to 25 millimetres, in Vidzeme and Kurzeme. The heaviest rain and sleet are expected in the morning and early afternoon in Vidzeme, including the capital, as well as in the middle of the day in Kurzeme.
While Latvia's spring generally brings milder weather with limited snowfall, no precise historical records or notable incidents of unexpected spring snowfalls with detailed snowfall depths and dates were found in the current available search information. For such detailed climatological records, specialized meteorological archives or national Latvian weather services might hold more specific historic snow event data.
It's worth noting that while Latvia's climate is relatively predictable, unexpected weather events like the current forecasted snowfall and heavy rain are a reminder of the country's unpredictable and ever-changing weather patterns. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and take precautions as necessary to ensure their safety during this unusual weather period.
In Vidzeme and Kurzeme regions, the Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre (LVGMC) has forecasted heavy rain with up to 25 millimetres of precipitation, including hail, which could make for an unpredictable weather scenario. Simultaneously, the south-east of Latvia, including Latgale, will experience a warmer period with sunny days but should prepare for short-term rain in the afternoon and evening, contrasting with the cooler weather and potential snowfall in the northern part of Vidzeme and near Riga.
