Russia is renowned for its extreme cold, with the lowest recorded temperature reaching a staggering −67.8 °C (−90.0 °F).
Understanding Russia's Extreme Cold
Much of Russia experiences exceptionally harsh winter conditions due to its vast continental landmass. Most of Northern European Russia and Siberia, stretching across the continent from the Scandinavian Peninsula to the Pacific Ocean, is characterized by a subarctic climate.
This climate type is synonymous with extremely severe winters. While the entire subarctic zone is cold, the most intense and record-breaking temperatures are found in specific regions.
The Epicenter of Cold: Northeast Siberia
The inner regions of Northeast Siberia are the coldest parts of Russia, predominantly within the Sakha Republic (Yakutia). This vast territory is known for experiencing some of the lowest temperatures on Earth outside of Antarctica.
The Record Low Temperature
The absolute coldest temperature ever officially recorded in Russia is:
- −67.8 °C (or −90.0 °F)
This record highlights the immense intensity of winter conditions in these remote, continental areas, far from the moderating influence of oceans. Such extreme lows are a defining characteristic of the Siberian winter, reflecting the severe climate that shapes life and landscapes across vast swathes of the country.