Yakutsk, Siberia, has recently experienced an extreme cold spell with temperatures plummeting to a bone-chilling -45 degrees Celsius. Known as the coldest city on Earth and located in eastern Siberia, Russia, Yakutsk poses significant challenges to its residents who have adapted to survive in such harsh conditions.
Despite the frigid weather hitting -45 degrees, locals in Yakutsk continue their daily activities amidst frozen vehicles and icy walkways. The severe cold has even led schools to close for the week, with students resorting to online classes from home.
Situated approximately 450km south of the Arctic Circle along the Lena River, Yakutsk endures some of the most extreme winter temperatures globally, highlighting the harsh climate of Siberia. The city’s population of around 300,000 copes with the extreme conditions by wearing multiple layers of clothing and frequently indulging in hot tea.
Residents of Yakutsk emphasize that the cold is bearable as long as there is no biting wind exacerbating the winter conditions. In the local markets, refrigerators are not needed as fish and meat freeze instantly. Despite the extreme cold, indoor cooking continues as usual with hearty dishes like meat soups, stews, dumplings, porridge, and bread being common fare.
A native of Yakutsk, Kiun B, warns of the risk of freezing within minutes without appropriate clothing. In a YouTube video, she demonstrates the layers of clothing she wears just to run errands, highlighting the necessity of thermal protection.
From leggings and camel wool knee pads for joint protection to insulated trousers and heavy-duty winter coats, Kiun layers up extensively to stay warm. Completing her ensemble with woolly hats, scarves, mittens, and fur boots specifically designed for Arctic winters, she stresses the importance of staying well-insulated to brave the extreme cold.
Life in Yakutsk demands resilience as the city’s infrastructure is built to withstand temperatures below -70 degrees Celsius. Roads, buildings, and utilities are designed for extreme cold, with most apartments equipped with round-the-clock central heating to combat the freezing conditions.