Temperatures Plummet to Minus 50 Celsius
Record Snowfall Hits Moscow
Unprecedented weather conditions have gripped Russia, witnessing temperatures dipping to extreme lows in Siberia and record snowfall engulfing Moscow. The recent cold snap has plunged parts of Siberia, particularly the Sakha Republic, into a bone-chilling minus 50 degrees Celsius, disrupting normal life and causing significant travel disruptions.
Siberia's Frigid Spell: Temperature Plummets
Siberia, known for its harsh winters, experienced an early and severe cold snap, with temperatures falling to remarkable lows, including below minus 50 degrees Celsius in certain areas of the Sakha Republic. Yakutsk, one of the coldest cities globally, encountered temperatures ranging from minus 44 C to minus 48 C, showcasing the intensity of this frosty wave. This occurrence, previously rare, indicates a changing climate, potentially linked to thawing permafrost.
Climate Change Impact: Thawing Permafrost
The recent prevalence of temperatures below minus 50 C starkly contrasts with past trends, primarily attributed to the effects of climate change. The alarming rise in temperatures within the permafrost regions of Siberia points to the concerning signs of permafrost thawing. This shift has been increasingly noticeable, marking a significant departure from the historical weather patterns of the region.
Moscow's Snowy Plight: Disrupted Flights and Record Snowfall
The Russian capital, Moscow, faced unparalleled snowfall, causing substantial disruptions in air travel. The heavy snow blanketing runways led to delays and cancellations, affecting at least 54 flights across the capital's major airports. This massive snowfall is one of the largest recorded instances in Moscow, causing operational challenges and inconvenience for travelers.
The weather forecast predicts Moscow's temperatures to decrease further, reaching approximately minus 18 C later this week. As Siberia grapples with extreme cold and permafrost thawing, the record snowfall in Moscow exacerbates travel disruptions, signaling the intensity of this year's winter weather in Russia.