Nestled deep within Russia’s Siberian region lies a city that often finds itself under permafrost yet can get hotter than London during the summer months.
Yakutsk, located in Siberia, is considered one of the coldest places on Earth, having recorded a bone-chilling low of -64C on 5 February 1891. In January, the city typically experiences average lows of -42C and receives less than four hours of sunlight each day.
Despite these severe conditions, Yakutsk is home to approximately 355,000 residents, a population slightly smaller than that of New Orleans in the US.
The city’s extreme cold is attributed to several factors, including its inland location. Situated about 725km from the Sea of Okhotsk, Yakutsk is built along the river Lea. However, the river valley tends to trap cold air, reports the Express.
Given that the city is constructed on permafrost, the ground remains perpetually frozen, contributing to the plummeting temperatures. Additionally, the city sees minimal sunlight, averaging just four hours a day during winter.
During the winter season, the city is often enveloped in “ice fog”, a phenomenon that occurs when “air is so cold that hot air from houses, people and cars cannot rise,” as explained by the North-Eastern Federal University in Yakutsk.
Yet, despite its icy reputation, this Siberian city can outdo London in terms of heat during the summer months. It boasts an average high temperature of 26C in July, compared to London’s typical peak of 24C.
Life in Yakutsk during the winter months is a ‘true’ test of resilience. A local woman has taken to TikTok to share her experiences of living in one of the coldest cities on Earth, showcasing the extensive preparations needed just to step outside.
Kiun B reveals her daily ritual before leaving her house, which includes donning multiple layers of clothing. She begins with thermal underwear, followed by camel wool kneepads and socks for joint and foot protection, insulated trousers, two padded jackets, a scarf, hat, and traditional mittens and boots to prevent her extremities from freezing.
She remarks that “sometimes, even a quick trip to the grocery store feels like a huge effort” due to the sheer amount of clothing required.
Although driving around the city might seem easier, it comes with its own set of challenges. In the winter, residents must keep their cars running continuously in heated garages to prevent the oil and battery from freezing.
Additionally, vehicles are equipped with double-layered windshields to provide insulation and prevent them from icing up while on the move.