Kazakhstan braces for severe frost, avalanche risk rises in Kyrgyzstan

Kazakhstan is set to face sharp weather fluctuations over the next three days, from December 20 to December 22, 2025, with forecasters warning of severe frost, snowfall and hazardous conditions across much of the country.

According to meteorologists from Kazhydromet, cited by Kazakh media, snowfall and blizzards are forecast in large parts of Kazakhstan. Heavy snow is expected in the northwestern, northern, eastern and central regions, while western and southern areas are likely to see mixed precipitation in the form of rain and snow. Mountainous areas in the south and southeast are also forecast to experience heavy snowfall.

Adverse weather conditions are expected nationwide, including fog, icy surfaces and strengthening winds, which could significantly affect transport and daily activities.

Forecasters warned that temperatures in the northwest, north, east and central regions will fluctuate sharply, ranging from around −5°C down to −18°C to −30°C. In particular, Kostanay Region and North Kazakhstan Region could see extreme морозs of −33°C to −35°C. In other parts of the country, meteorologists said no major changes in temperature levels are expected.

Avalanche risk in Kyrgyzstan

At the same time, authorities in Kyrgyzstan have issued avalanche warnings for mountainous areas due to expected precipitation over the same period.

The Ministry of Emergency Situations told Kyrgyz press that from December 20 to December 22, avalanches, snowdrifts, compacted snow and icy conditions are likely both in mountain regions and along several key highways. High-risk sections include parts of the Bishkek–Osh road at the Too-Ashuu and Ala-Bel passes, stretches of the Ala-Buka–Kanysh-Kyya route near the Chapchyma Pass, as well as roads connecting Krasnaya Gorka and Ak-Tash, Myrza-Ake and Kara-Kuldzha via Alaikuu, Karakol and Enilchek through the Chon-Ashuu Pass, and the Balykchy–Kazarman–Jalal-Abad route near the Kok-Art Pass.

Emergency services urged travelers to exercise caution, monitor weather updates closely and avoid unnecessary travel in high-risk mountainous areas during the forecast period.

By Tamilla Hasanova