Yekaterinburg Hit by Severe Frosts, Ice Rink Closed and Birds Struggle

Yekaterinburg is experiencing anomalous cold, with temperatures dropping below -30°C (-22°F). City facilities are closing, and residents are helping animals.
Feb 1, 2026
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In the severe frost, warm clothing appears to be the only means of salvation.
Source:

Vladislav Lonshakov / E1.RU

On January 22, the thermometer in Yekaterinburg dropped below -30°C (-22°F). The extreme cold forced residents to freeze not only on the streets but also inside public transport vehicles.
The ice rink has been temporarily closed due to the extremely low temperatures.
Source:

Vladislav Lonshakov / E1.RU

Due to the severe frosts, city streets have noticeably emptied. The ice rink on 1905 Square was forced to close. An announcement at the entrance states that the facility will not operate until January 23.
The entrance to the rink is obstructed by a row of decorative barrels.
Source:

Vladislav Lonshakov / E1.RU

Work at the ice town, located in the Historical Square, continues despite the harsh weather conditions. Here, the dismantling of New Year«s structures is underway.
Once the severe frosts subside, the ice rink will reopen to the public.
Source:

Vladislav Lonshakov / E1.RU

Ducks at the Plotinka (the Dam) are saving themselves from the frost by huddling in flocks. Concerned Yekaterinburg residents are feeding the birds to help them survive the cold.
Workers continue to dismantle ice sculptures and structures despite the freezing conditions.
Source:

Vladislav Lonshakov / E1.RU

Meteorologists explain that the cause of the anomalous frosts is an anticyclone. According to forecasts, temperatures around -30°C (-22°F) will persist in the Urals until Saturday, January 24.
Cleanup of the New Year«s decorations in the Historical Square is nearing completion.
Source:

Vladislav Lonshakov / E1.RU

Ducks cluster together in flocks to conserve body heat during the cold spell.
Source:

Vladislav Lonshakov / E1.RU

Source:

Vladislav Lonshakov / E1.RU

Source:

Vladislav Lonshakov / E1.RU

Source:

Vladislav Lonshakov / E1.RU

Residents are providing food for birds on urban streets to help them through the cold.
Source:

Vladislav Lonshakov / E1.RU

Source:

Vladislav Lonshakov / E1.RU

Pigeons and other bird species find it difficult to cope with the intense cold.
Source:

Vladislav Lonshakov / E1.RU

Source:

Vladislav Lonshakov / E1.RU

Source:

Vladislav Lonshakov / E1.RU

Source:

Vladislav Lonshakov / E1.RU

Source:

Vladislav Lonshakov / E1.RU

Source:

Vladislav Lonshakov / E1.RU

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