Ukraine Braces for Deep Freeze: Temperatures to Plummet to -20°C with Fog and Ice

Weather Forecast for Ukraine

According to Главком: A severe cold snap is gripping Ukraine, with meteorologists warning of hazardous fog and widespread ice. The forecast for the coming days promises low temperatures, fog, and icy conditions that are likely to disrupt travel across the country. The lowest temperatures are expected in the western, northern, and northeastern regions of Ukraine. Overnight, thermometers in these areas will drop to between -9°C and -17°C, with some locations potentially hitting -20°C.

Temperature Swings and Hazards

During the day, temperatures in most regions will range from -4°C to -11°C, while in the south and Zakarpattia, they will hold between 0°C and -5°C. Forecasters predict a slight moderation in the cold, with temperatures rising by 2–4 degrees on January 22. However, on January 21, dense fog with visibility reduced to 200–500 meters is anticipated across most of Ukraine, excluding the northwest and southeast.

Dangerous black ice will persist on roadways, creating a significant hazard for drivers. From January 22 to 24, light snowfall is possible, initially in the western oblasts. This forecast was detailed in an interview with 'Glavcom' by Natalia Ptukha, a meteorologist at the Ukrhydrometcenter, who also noted the likelihood of fog during the night and morning hours of January 21.

Beyond the immediate travel disruptions, such extreme cold places considerable strain on national infrastructure. The freezing conditions can severely stress the country's energy grid, leading to heightened electricity consumption for heating. Drivers and pedestrians must exercise extreme caution due to the combined threats of ice and fog, which are prime causes of traffic accidents. This situation requires all citizens to adhere to strict safety measures while outdoors and on the roads.