Weather Forecast for February 18
Meteorologist Natalia Didenko has issued a warning for a southern cyclone arriving on February 18, which will severely disrupt weather conditions across most of Ukraine. Western and northern regions should prepare for snow, icy glaze, and gusty winds. In the country's central part, forecasts call for snow, sleet, rain, wet snow accumulation, ice, and strong northeastern winds.
Eastern regions will see predominantly rain, while southern areas will also experience rainfall. Specifically, the Odesa region is bracing for sleet, storm-force winds, and significant precipitation. Nighttime temperatures will average -5 to -9 degrees Celsius, dropping to -10 to -15 in northern areas. During the day on February 18, temperatures will range from -2 to +7 degrees, while in the south, southeast, and Zakarpattia, they will hover between 0 and +3 degrees. In Crimea, the mercury will climb to +5 to +10 degrees.
In Kyiv, nighttime temperatures could plunge to -12 degrees, with daytime highs around -8. Forecasters also warn of icy roads, with possible snow in the capital on Wednesday evening. A more sustained warming trend with thawing conditions and above-zero temperatures is expected from February 22-23, Didenko noted.
Cyclone's Impact on Daily Life
The approaching cyclone on February 18 poses a serious threat to transportation infrastructure and daily life, as the deteriorating weather brings hazardous road conditions due to ice and high winds. Such winter storms are common in the region during late February, often testing public services. The expected temperature drop may also strain energy grids and utility services, which must be prepared for increased demand due to the cold.
Given these risks, it is crucial for the public to heed meteorologists' advice and exercise caution when traveling in these challenging conditions.