The morning of March 12 in Perm was painted white as an unexpected snowstorm blanketed the city. However, this winter spectacle is set to be short-lived. By afternoon, temperatures are expected to climb above zero, transforming the snowy landscape into a wet, slushy mess. The snow, like an uninvited guest, will make its exit, replaced by rain.
The culprit behind this snowy surprise is a passing warm front, a meteorological phenomenon that often brings dramatic weather changes. While the snowflakes danced across the sky, the warm front was already plotting its next move: a shift to rain. The heaviest snowfall is predicted in the Gubakha region, with up to 10 mm of precipitation. In Perm, a more modest 2-4 mm is expected, which will transition to rain by evening. Don’t expect a significant increase in snow cover—this is just a fleeting visit from winter.
Earlier forecasts hinted at a thaw sweeping across the Perm region starting March 12. Temperatures are predicted to rise to +4…+6°C, a notable 10 degrees above the seasonal average. Rain will dominate the weather scene, with the peak of the warmth expected on March 15. This day might even see a new temperature record being set, as if winter is reluctantly handing over the reins to spring.
But don’t pack away your winter gear just yet. By Sunday, the weather will take a sharp turn, with colder temperatures and renewed snowfall. It seems winter isn’t ready to fully retreat, leaving us in a tug-of-war between seasons. As the saying goes, "March is a month of contrasts," and this year is no exception.