After several years of relatively mild winters, Russia is gearing up for what meteorologists say will be a truly "Russian winter," with its traditional frosts and ample snowfall.
"Our estimations show that this year's winter will be closer to our long-term average," Alexander Frolov, head of the Federal Agency for Hydrometeorology and Environmental Monitoring, said in comments to Interfax.
"Our long-term average corresponds to a cold winter. We've had milder winters in the past few years. This year's will be closer to a 'Russian' winter."
Severe frosts are expected to hit the country in January and February, according to the agency. Large fluctuations in temperatures and a high quantity of precipitation are also anticipated.
Moscow's first snowfall is expected Friday, when forecasters say the mercury will drop to around 4 degrees Celsius.
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