First snowflakes in Astana: When will warm weather return to the capital?

The first snowfall of the autumn was recorded in Astana on October,5. The precipitation was brought to the capital by a northern cyclone, followed by an influx of Arctic air into the country, El.kz reports.

During the daytime, temperatures in the capital are expected to reach +3 to +5°C. The sky will remain overcast, with snow intermittently turning into rain. As recently as the beginning of October, summer-like temperatures were still prevailing across the country.

Along with the first barely perceptible snowflakes, south-westerly winds reached the city. Wind gusts are expected to reach 30 metres per second or more at times during the day.

Record-breaking summer

The cold spell arrived in the city just over a month after a season that has gone down in the history of meteorological observations. The country’s average summer temperature exceeded the climatic norm by 2.15°C. Meteorologists have classified it as the hottest summer on record.

In mid-July, Astana recorded a temperature of +38.6°C. The most significant heat was recorded in the eastern parts of Akmola and Karaganda Regions, Pavlodar Region, most of East Kazakhstan Region, and Abai Region.

When will it get warmer?

On Tuesday, rain and snow are expected to continue, with meteorologists forecasting icy conditions and blowing snow. Daytime temperatures are expected to reach +2 to +4°C.

Precipitation will cease on Wednesday, with partly cloudy conditions expected. At night, temperatures will fall to between −3 and −1°C, while fog is expected in the city. During the daytime, temperatures will begin to rise.

On Thursday, the night will remain dry, while rain is expected during the day accompanied by south-westerly winds. On Friday, the wind will shift to the west, and daytime temperatures will rise to +13 to +15°C.

What will October be like?

Meteorologists describe the cold spell as temporary. During the second half of the first ten days of October, warm air from Central Asia and the eastern Mediterranean coast is expected to move into the country. Daytime temperatures across most of Kazakhstan are forecast to rise to +15 to +20°C.

The average October temperature in Astana is forecast at around +6°C, which is above the climatic norm. Precipitation across most of the country is expected to be close to the seasonal norm.