Comparing Winter Temperatures in Moscow and Ulaanbaatar: Which City is Colder?

Welcome to this article where we delve into the winter temperatures of two of the world's coldest capital cities: Moscow, Russia, and Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. While Moscow is often referred to as the 'Paris of the East,' Ulaanbaatar has a reputation for experiencing some of the most biting winters on the planet. In this detailed analysis, we'll compare the average winter temperatures of both cities and uncover the reasons for Ulaanbaatar's notorious chill factor.

Introduction to Moscow and Ulaanbaatar's Winter Climate

Moscow, the bustling capital of Russia, is known for its vibrant culture and historic landmarks. However, winter in Moscow can be challenging, with average temperatures generally around -5°C to -10°C (23°F to 14°F). Historically, Moscow has experienced exceptionally cold winters, falling just short of Ulaanbaatar for the title of the coldest capital city.

On the other hand, Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, is a much more extreme example of a cold climate. Winter temperatures in Ulaanbaatar can drop to an average of -35°C to -40°C (-31°F to -40°F) and even lower, often falling to -36°C to 42°C (-33°F to -44°F) on extreme days. This temperature range is not uncommon, especially in the month of January.

Seasonal Temperature Variability in Ulaanbaatar

In Ulaanbaatar, the transcendent nature of the climate is perhaps its most unique characteristic. It's not uncommon for the seasons to change rapidly within a single day. So, one might experience winter in the morning, spring in the afternoon, and summer in the evening, only to cycle back to winter by nightfall. This phenomenon is known locally as the "seasons in a glass" due to the belief that the environment inside a glass could hold all four seasons. Such a dramatic change can occur due to the city's altitude, which is approximately 1,358 meters (4,458 feet) above sea level.

Ulaanbaatar is a landlocked city, lacking the moderating effect of nearby seas, lakes, or oceans, which can significantly impact temperature fluctuation. This is why Ulaanbaatar can experience extreme temperature variations despite being in a relatively temperate zone. Add to this the city's isolation from these bodies of water, and the result is a dry, often frigid air that seems even colder than it appears.

The Harsh Reality of Ulaanbaatar's Winter

During the coldest days in winter, the temperature in Ulaanbaatar can be as low as -40°C (-40°F), but the relative humidity is usually quite low, typically below 60%. This dry air tends to feel colder because it does not retain heat as well as more humid air. On such days, the perceived temperature—or what feels like the temperature—can drop to around -35°C (-31°F) or even lower.

Since Ulaanbaatar lacks nearby bodies of water, the temperature drops significantly during the winter, often colder than in Moscow. In Moscow, one might expect an average temperature of -5°C to -10°C (-6°F to -14°F) in the winter, whereas in Ulaanbaatar, the mean winter temperature can drop to an average of -35°C to -40°C (-31°F to -40°F).

Comparison of Moscow and Ulaanbaatar's Winter Temperatures

To better understand the difference in winter temperatures between the two cities, it is helpful to look at the data and averages. Typically, Moscow's winter months (December, January, and February) have temperatures ranging from -5°C to -10°C (-6°F to -14°F) during the day and may drop to -15°C to -20°C ( 5°F to -4°F) at night.

Ulaanbaatar, on the other hand, has far more extreme temperatures. The average low in Ulaanbaatar during the winter months is around -23°C to -25°C (-9°F to -13°F), and the thermometer often drops to -35°C to -40°C (-31°F to -40°F) on the coldest days. In fact, Ulaanbaatar can experience nights as cold as -40°C (-40°F) and perhaps even colder during the coldest months of the year.

Conclusion: Which City is Colder?

When considering the typical average temperatures during the winter months, Ulaanbaatar undoubtedly stands out as the more frigid city. The coldest winter temperatures in Ulaanbaatar can drop to -36°C to -42°C (-33°F to -44°F), which far exceeds the temperatures in Moscow, where the coldest averages typically do not fall below -15°C to -20°C ( 5°F to -4°F).

So, to answer the original question: When it comes to winter temperatures, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, is indeed colder than Moscow, Russia. Due to its unique geographical and atmospheric conditions, Ulaanbaatar experiences much lower average temperatures and greater temperature variability, making it a formidable challenge for even the heartiest winter sports enthusiasts and residents alike.

If you're planning a trip to either city in the winter, be prepared for the extreme cold, particularly in Ulaanbaatar. Understanding these temperature differences is crucial for travelers and locals alike, and it underscores the importance of proper winter gear and preparation in both cities.