Frost Intensity in St. Petersburg Hinges on Cloud Cover

Chief meteorologist Alexander Kolesov reported that a cold snap is inevitable in St. Petersburg, with temperatures varying based on cloudiness.

Feb 22, 2026

St. Petersburg experiences varying frost intensities based on cloud cover, as explained by meteorologists.
Source:
Mikhail Ognev / Fontanka.ru

On January 27, the chief meteorologist of St. Petersburg, Alexander Kolesov, stated that the city expects «definitely cold weather». Currently, air temperatures are ranging from -10 to -15 degrees Celsius (14 to 5°F).

Kolesov explained that the intensity of the frosts will depend on cloudiness. In the absence of clouds, temperatures can drop sharply. As an example, he cited Finland, where in clear weather thermometer readings drop to -20…-25 degrees Celsius (-4…-13°F), while in cloudy conditions they do not fall below -9…-12 degrees Celsius (16…10°F).

The meteorological situation is linked to an anticyclone over Finland, which is strengthening and gradually moving south towards the Leningrad region. Atmospheric pressure is rising noticeably: first to 770 mm Hg, and in the center of the vortex it can reach 780 mm Hg (about 1040 hPa). This process leads to breaks in cloud cover and sunny weather.

«Weather forecasts are now being prepared, but it is already clear that it will be cold in the coming days. It only remains to determine the temperature range, which during nighttime clearings should be -20…-25 degrees Celsius (-4…-13°F) by the weekend,» the meteorologist noted.