Polar wave brings heavy snow at low altitudes and widespread ice in Europe in the second half of the week

Arab Weather - Arab Weather Center specialists continue to follow the latest updates from numerical computer models, which indicate that a huge polar air mass has separated from the polar vortex and is heading directly towards the European continent for the first time this season. This mass brings with it very low temperatures and bitterly cold weather, and the models expect heavy snowfall at low altitudes in many European regions.

Sharp drop in temperatures reaching -20 Celsius over the mountains

According to forecasts, this polar air mass is expected to affect large parts of Europe, especially during the second half of the week. Its impact will include the northern, central and southern regions of the continent, including the Balkan countries. The mass will move from the Arctic Circle to the south of the continent, leading to a noticeable drop in temperatures in many European countries, to become lower than their usual rates for this time of year.

Temperatures are expected to drop sharply, especially during the night hours, with temperatures in some areas expected to reach negative values, reaching around -22 to -23 degrees Celsius over the mountains. This sharp drop in temperatures increases the possibility of freezing in large areas.

Heavy snowfall at low elevations with extensive accumulations in many areas.

The forecast also indicates that the polar wave will be accompanied by severe cooling in the lower layers of the atmosphere, leading to heavy snowfall, especially on the mountainous heights. As the polar winds deepen towards the plains in central Europe, the snow will fall to cover low-lying areas at lower altitudes than usual. Snow is expected to accumulate in many areas, which may hinder movement and lead to the closure of some roads, including in major cities. This may increase the possibility of negative effects on air and train traffic in Europe.

Increased demand for heating services amid severe cold weather

With this cold wave, it is expected that the demand for heating services will increase significantly in the European countries affected by this very cold polar mass, especially in the areas that will record severe drops in temperatures.

And God knows best.