Drivers urged to refrain from traveling: what is known about the red danger level
29 January 23:54
Ukrainian drivers are urged to refrain from long-distance travel, especially at night and in the morning, due to a sharp deterioration in weather conditions. Severe frosts are forecast from February 1 to 3, 2026, across most of the country. This was reported by the State Agency for the Restoration and Development of Infrastructure of Ukraine, according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
The agency notes that Ukraine will be hit by a wave of Arctic air from northern Europe, and the additional cooling will be exacerbated by high atmospheric pressure and clear nighttime weather.
“Very cold weather is expected across most of Ukraine from February 1 to 3, 2026,” the agency said in an official statement.
Temperature and danger level
According to forecasts:
- at night, the air temperature will drop to –20…–27°C;
- in Rivne, Zhytomyr, Kyiv, Chernihiv, Sumy, Poltava, and Kharkiv regions, temperatures are expected to reach –30°C in some places.
Such weather conditions correspond to hazard level III (red).
During the day, the temperature will be –15…–22°C.
What are the risks for transport and infrastructure?
Severe frosts, with the exception of Zakarpattia and southern Ukraine, may lead to:
- complications in the work of energy and utility companies;
- disruption of people’s daily lives;
- problems in the movement of road, rail, and electric transport.
Recommendations for drivers
The State Agency for Restoration emphasizes that drivers should be especially careful.
“Due to severe frosts, drivers are advised to refrain from long journeys, especially at night and in the morning, if possible. Before departure, it is worth checking the technical condition of the car. While driving, it is necessary to maintain a safe speed and distance, and avoid sudden maneuvers. For long trips, it is advisable to have warm clothes and a supply of fuel,” the agency said.
When is the warming expected?
According to preliminary forecasts, starting on February 4-5, beginning in the western and southwestern regions, the cold weather will gradually ease.
The information will be updated in accordance with daily weather forecasts.
