Poland experiences record-breaking temperatures with schools closed nationwide amid severe frost warnings.
Temperature Extremes
At 12:00 PM, the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW) recorded the lowest temperature in Kwidzyn at -15.9°C. The warmest reading was in Zakopane at -0.5°C. IMGW recorded the lowest perceived temperature at noon in Płock at -19°C, while the warmest perceived temperature was in Lesko (Podkarpackie province) at -2°C. Overnight, Kwidzyn reached -25.4°C.
School Closures
Due to the extreme cold, classes were canceled in 549 schools across Poland, including 217 in Mazovia and 153 in Pomerania province, according to the Ministry of National Education. In some institutions, principals have organized distance learning and care classes to maintain education continuity.
Regulations and Safety
Polish education regulations mandate a minimum temperature of 18°C in classrooms. When this cannot be maintained, principals must suspend classes for a specified period and notify the managing authorities. The Government Safety Centre has also warned residents of Otwock County about dangerous smog levels, advising them to avoid outdoor activities.
Heating Issues
A heating plant fault in Gdańsk since Monday has affected several districts including Żabianka, Oliwa, and parts of Śródmieście and Sopot. Gdańsk District Heating Company reports the situation is stable, with efforts to maintain temperatures in apartments above 15°C.
Weather Warnings
IMGW has issued first-degree frost warnings for multiple voivodeships including Pomeranian, Warmian-Masurian, and parts of Mazovia. The institute forecasts nighttime temperatures ranging from -13°C to -18°C, with some areas potentially reaching -20°C. A gradual warming trend is expected from Wednesday, though it will bring freezing rain as a dangerous secondary effect.
