State Emergency Service Activates Highest Alert for Extreme Cold Across Ukraine
A powerful Arctic anticyclone has enveloped Ukraine, bringing a period of anomalously cold weather. The peak of this severe cold spell is forecast for February 1-3, 2026. According to the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Center, the weather forecast for February 2 predicts temperatures dropping to between -18°C and -23°C across much of the country overnight. In northern regions and the Kharkiv area, temperatures are expected to fall to -22°C to -27°C, with localized lows reaching -30°C. Daytime temperatures will range from -13°C to -18°C.
In the south and southeast, overnight lows of -12°C to -17°C are forecast, with daytime highs of -6°C to -11°C. In Crimea and Zakarpattia, overnight temperatures will be -3°C to -8°C, rising to 0°C to -5°C during the day. Icy conditions are also expected on roads in some areas, which may complicate travel.
Forecast for the Kyiv Region
In the Kyiv region, overnight temperatures will drop to -22°C to -27°C, with daytime highs of -13°C to -18°C. In the capital city of Kyiv, overnight lows will range from -22°C to -24°C, while daytime temperatures will be -14°C to -16°C. A north wind of 5-10 m/s is expected in both the Kyiv region and the city.
In response to these dangerous conditions, the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (DSNS) has declared a Level III (red) danger alert for a number of the country's regions. This extreme cold is characteristic of the deep winter periods that can affect Eastern Europe, posing significant risks to infrastructure and public health.
This anomalous cold affecting Ukraine could significantly impact citizens' daily lives, particularly transportation infrastructure and energy systems.
The declaration of the red-level danger indicates serious risks to human health, making it crucial to follow the recommendations of relevant authorities. Under such weather conditions, it is especially important to remain vigilant and cautious to avoid injuries and dangerous situations.