After almost spring-like temperatures shortly before Christmas, new hope for wintery weather is emerging in parts of the Czech Republic. Of all times, a marked change in the weather is expected on Christmas Eve. Cold air from the east could even bring snow to lower elevations in some regions.
After unusually mild days, the weather in the Czech Republic could change noticeably just in time for Christmas Eve. According to the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (ČHMÚ), there is a chance of snowfall on Christmas Eve – not only in the mountains, but in places also at lower elevations.
The trigger is an inflow of cold air from the east. This air mass of Arctic origin is expected to replace the current inversion weather shortly before 24 December. In recent days, temperatures were above freezing even at higher elevations, and in some cases it was warmer in the mountains than in the lowlands. Maximum temperatures recently reached around ten degrees Celsius nationwide, and on Friday in some places even almost twelve degrees.
With the change in weather, this picture is likely to change. According to the ČHMÚ, temperatures in lower elevations will drop to around the freezing point on Christmas Eve, while higher elevations and the mountains will already experience pronounced frost. This will also increase the chances of snowfall. Meteorologists see a particularly high probability of snow in the south and south-west of the country, especially in Bohemia.
Model calculations by the weather service show that the snow line could be around 400 to 500 metres at least at the start of Christmas Eve. The decisive factor will be how strongly the cold air actually advances into Central Europe. What is certain, however, according to the ČHMÚ, is that temperature conditions will change noticeably compared to recent days.
For ski resorts, the change in weather would be a welcome development. Many resorts are currently struggling with a lack of snow and, due to the mild temperatures, have in some cases not even been able to produce artificial snow. Whether the announced cold spell will bring lasting relief remains to be seen.
