Forecast Warns of Severe Cold Snap Following a Short Warm Interlude
According to the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Center, the end of January and start of February will see a brief period of warmer weather accompanied by mixed precipitation, before a sharp return to freezing conditions. This volatile winter pattern is typical for the region, where air masses from the Arctic and Atlantic frequently clash. While a temporary easing of the frost is expected in the coming days, the cold is forecast to regain its grip by the weekend and early February.
A cold anticyclone will temporarily retreat from the northeast, allowing an area of low pressure to influence Ukraine's weather. Most regions, except the east, are predicted to see precipitation in the form of wet snow and rain. Central and northern areas face the risk of ice and glaze formation. Gusty winds will reach speeds of 7-12 m/s, and in some places, 15-20 m/s.
Anticipated Cold Wave
The synoptic situation will begin to shift from January 30. The cooling will first affect northern oblasts before spreading to almost the entire country. Nighttime temperatures will drop to significant sub-zero values, especially in the north and east. On January 29, wet snow and rain are forecast across Ukraine, with temperatures hovering near or slightly above zero day and night. Southern regions will see air temperatures of +4...+7°C, while in Crimea, it will reach up to +14°C.
The cooling will begin in the north on January 30, and from January 31 to February 1, the cold air will spread across virtually all of Ukraine. The peak of the freeze is preliminarily forecast for February 1-3, when nighttime temperatures could drop to -15...-24°C, with even lower readings possible in northern areas.
This follows a recent sharp warming in Zakarpattia after anomalous frosts as low as -25°C, which triggered significant ice movement on the region's rivers. The most powerful ice drift was recorded on the Borzhava River in the village of Dovhe, Khust district. This thaw led to ice jams and a threat of localized flooding.
As forecaster Natalka Didenko noted, 'the nearest warm day will effectively be the only one in the short term.'
The expected weather change in Ukraine could have serious consequences for the population, including an increased risk of emergencies due to icy conditions and ice blockages. Deteriorating weather may impact transportation and lead to complications in daily life.
Meteorologists recommend caution when traveling and advise taking weather conditions into account when planning trips.