Western Siberia braces for a brutal cold snap this week
A sharp cold snap is set to hit Western Siberia from January 31 to February 2. The Ob-Irtyshskoye UGMS, the regional meteorological service based in Novosibirsk, has issued forecasts for freezing temperatures and snowfall. Residents across the Ob-Irtysh basin should prepare for bitter conditions over the coming days.
The cold spell begins on January 31, with temperatures ranging from -3 to -8 degrees. Snow is expected, particularly in the northern half of the region, as an atmospheric front moves in.
On February 1, the chill will intensify, dropping to between -5 and -10 degrees. Northern areas will face even harsher conditions, with lows of -16 degrees.
By February 2, daytime temperatures will plummet further, reaching -9 to -14 degrees. In the far north, readings could fall to -19 degrees. The freeze will ease only when a North Atlantic cyclone brings warmer air, pushing temperatures upward in the days that follow.
The Ob-Irtyshskoye UGMS continues to monitor the situation closely. Forecasts suggest a brief but severe cold period before the cyclone's arrival. Residents are advised to stay updated on further warnings from the regional hydrometeorological service.
