Winter has firmly settled across Norway following an unusually mild start to November. Temperatures have dropped significantly nationwide, with most areas experiencing below-freezing conditions. Only the southernmost coastal regions might see temperatures slightly above zero.
Meteorologist Marek Ratajczak warns that interior areas across northern and southern Norway will face particularly harsh conditions. "Many locations will drop to minus 20 degrees Celsius, with some spots possibly reaching minus 30. We're talking about proper winter cold now," he stated.
The coldest temperatures are expected in inner Finnmark, interior Troms, and the innermost valleys of Eastern Norway. While the cold affects everyone, snow distribution varies significantly across regions.
Authorities issued yellow weather warnings for heavy snow in Møre and Romsdal and Trøndelag counties. From Monday afternoon through Tuesday afternoon, snow showers could deposit 15-30 centimeters within 24 hours. Higher elevations and interior areas might receive even more accumulation.
Snow primarily affects areas from Nordvestlandet northward. Coastal regions in Møre and Romsdal and Trøndelag may experience mixed sleet and snow conditions. Northern Norway will see snow showers moving in from the north, though there may be breaks throughout the week. Finnmark and Troms, especially coastal areas, could still receive substantial snowfall.
Eastern Norway might see light snow flurries during the week, but meteorologists remain uncertain about significant accumulation. "It's probably not enough for skiing conditions. The amounts will likely be too small," Ratajczak noted.
The cold spell appears temporary rather than permanent. "It looks like conditions might moderate somewhat by the weekend. Next week brings greater uncertainty about whether mild weather will persist or cold will return," the meteorologist explained. He emphasized that weekend temperatures won't reach summer levels but should rise above freezing, particularly in Southern Norway.
Ratajczak pointed out that the current cold snap represents normal seasonal patterns rather than exceptional weather. "The beginning of November was unusually mild. That was the abnormal part. Getting this cold now isn't particularly unusual as we progress further into November," he clarified.
Meteorologists recommend that residents prepare winter clothing and remain cautious about driving conditions, especially if roads were previously wet. Last week and weekend saw multiple accidents related to changing weather conditions.
This temperature shift represents a typical Nordic seasonal transition, though the abrupt change from unseasonable warmth to deep cold requires adjustment. Norwegian authorities consistently monitor such weather patterns to provide timely warnings and ensure public safety during winter conditions. The variability between coastal and inland temperatures highlights Norway's diverse climate geography, where mountain regions often experience dramatically different weather than coastal areas within short distances.