Brace yourselves, Lithuania: the winter you’ve been waiting for (or dreading) is here. Severe cold is sweeping in from the northeast, and the coming days will bring temperatures so low, you’ll feel like you’re on another planet. Meteorologists are issuing dire warnings, and the numbers are stark: perceived temperatures could plummet to a bone-chilling -35°C to -40°C. This isn’t just cold; it’s a deep freeze that demands immediate attention.
The Cold Front Arrives: Don’t Underestimate These Numbers
As we move beyond January and into the heart of winter, Lithuanian meteorologists are painting a grim picture. By the end of the month and the beginning of February, expect widespread temperatures dipping below -20°C. But the real shocker is the “feels like” temperature. Wind and humidity will combine to create conditions where it feels as cold as -35°C to -40°C in certain areas. This is shaping up to be the coldest period of the winter, hitting the northeastern, eastern, and central regions the hardest.
Today and Tomorrow: The Chill Deepens
Even as you read this, the cold is intensifying. Starting tonight and into Friday morning (January 30-31), the mercury will continue to drop. Daytime temperatures will hover between -8°C and -12°C, with northeastern areas like Utena and Panevėžys seeing readings as low as -14°C to -16°C. Adding to the misery, a north-easterly wind at 7-12 m/s, with gusts up to 15-18 m/s, will make it feel like -18°C to -25°C in many places, and even colder in exposed areas.
The forecast for Friday night is even more severe. Brace for temperatures between -15°C and -22°C across much of the country. In the northeast and eastern regions, it could plunge to -23°C to -27°C. Coastal and western areas will offer a slight reprieve, with temperatures around -10°C to -15°C.
The Weekend: The True Test of Endurance
According to the latest models and the Lithuanian Hydrometeorological Service (LHMT), the peak of this cold snap is expected this weekend (January 31 – February 2) and into early next week. This is when we’ll truly feel the biting cold:
- Nights: Expect widespread -18°C to -25°C. In the northeast, Aukštaitija, and Dzūkija, this could reach -26°C to -30°C, and even lower in isolated spots.
- Days: Even during the day, temperatures will struggle to rise above -10°C to -18°C, dropping to -20°C in colder regions.
- Perceived Temperature: With moderate winds (8-14 m/s), the “feels like” temperature will reach -30°C to -40°C in many parts of the country, especially in eastern and northern regions and open landscapes like fields and by rivers and lakes.
For context, cities like Vilnius and Kaunas can expect nighttime temperatures of -20°C to -25°C, feeling like -30°C to -35°C. Klaipėda and the coast will be slightly milder, with nighttime lows of -12°C to -18°C and daytime highs of -8°C to -12°C.
Beware the Black Ice: A Treacherous Addition
The air will generally be calm due to a high-pressure system, but light snowfall is expected in some eastern and southern areas. During the day, this precipitation might turn into freezing rain or drizzle, creating dangerous black ice on roads, sidewalks, and stairs. This poses a particular threat in eastern and southern Lithuania throughout the day.
While the snow is expected to be light, it could accumulate by 3-5 cm in higher or more mountainous areas (though Lithuania has few extensive mountain ranges).
Preparing for the Extreme Cold: Practical Tips for Lithuanians
Surviving this deep freeze requires more than just a warm coat. Here’s how to prepare:
- Clothing: Layer up! Wear a warm hat, gloves, and a scarf. Protect your face and hands from frostbite, especially if you’ll be outdoors for more than 10-15 minutes.
- Your Car: Check your battery, coolant, and windshield wipers. If possible, park your car in a sheltered location. Top up your fuel tank in advance.
- Your Home: Inspect your heating system and pipes. Frozen pipes can burst. Don’t seal ventilation completely, as fresh air circulation is still vital.
- Your Health: Avoid sudden temperature changes and boost your immune system. Elderly individuals and children should limit their time outdoors.
- Driving: Exercise extreme caution on the roads. Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles as black ice and snow make driving hazardous.
- Pets: Ensure adequate warmth and shelter for outdoor animals. Change their water frequently, as it can freeze quickly.
Winter’s True Arrival
After an unpredictable start to winter, marked by snowless Decembers, thaws, and sudden snowfalls, classic, intense cold has finally arrived. This deep freeze, often called “Siberian cold” in the past, is predicted to last at least a week. A gradual warming might occur in mid-February, but for now, focus on staying safe.
Keep an eye on local weather forecasts from LHMT, orai.lt, or Meteo.lt, as predictions can change. The coming days are undeniably going to be frigid. Dress warmly, exercise caution, and protect your health – a perceived temperature of -40°C is no laughing matter.
What are your personal tips for surviving such extreme cold? Share your advice in the comments below!