Poland is under frost warnings as temperatures plummet, with snowfall in the Tatra Mountains creating hazardous conditions for hikers.
National Frost Warnings Issued
The Polish State Meteorological Institute (IMGW) has issued first-degree frost warnings for all of Poland’s voivodeships, effective from 11:00 PM Tuesday (April 21st) to 7:00 AM the following day. Temperatures are forecast to drop to between -2 and -1 degrees Celsius across most areas, with localized lows of -4 degrees Celsius, and ground temperatures reaching -6 to -2 degrees Celsius.
Weather Forecast for Tuesday
Tuesday (April 21st) will see scattered small and moderate cloud cover across most of Poland, except in the south where clouds may occasionally obscure the sky. Isolated, diminishing rainfall is possible in parts of Silesia and Lesser Poland. Despite this, temperatures are expected to range from 10 to 13 degrees Celsius, though it will be cooler along the coast and in the foothills.
The night is expected to be clear, but cold.
Tatra Mountain Conditions Deteriorate
Snowfall overnight from Monday to Tuesday has worsened conditions for hikers in the higher reaches of the Tatra Mountains. Snow depth on Kasprowy Wierch has reached 135 cm, with a temperature of -8 degrees Celsius. The Dolina Pięciu Stawów Polskich reports 140 cm of snow.
Hazardous Hiking Conditions
Tatra National Park reports that the snow on trails is hard and frozen, especially in the mornings, and a thin layer of fresh snow from overnight precipitation adds to the difficulty. Strong winds are also present, particularly above the tree line.
As temperatures rise in the afternoon, the snow becomes wet and slushy, further hindering movement. Fallen trees from a recent avalanche obstruct the green trail between Równia Waksmundzka and Hala Gąsienicowa, requiring extreme caution. Experienced winter hikers with appropriate equipment – crampons, ice axe, helmet, and avalanche safety gear – are essential in higher elevations.
Avalanche Risk Remains Low
The Tatra Volunteer Mountain Rescue Service (TOPR) reports a first, low-level avalanche risk. The snowpack is generally well-bonded and stable, with avalanches possible only under significant load in limited areas, particularly on very steep slopes. Small and medium-sized spontaneous avalanches are also possible. Despite the overall stability, caution is advised.
Proposed Changes to Nature Protection Laws
The government is preparing a draft amendment to the nature protection law, tightening regulations for investments in national parks and their buffer zones. PSL and Poland 2050 parties propose that local municipalities should decide on the establishment of new nature reserves.