‘Norilsk’ Known As The Coldest City In Russia Had 2 Months Worth Of Snow In Less Than A Week (30 Pics)

In terms of the coldest temperature ever recorded, Russia is considered the world’s coldest country. The city of Norilsk in Russia, is located above the Arctic Circle particularly in the continuous permafrost zone. In this isolated city, summers are short which are mostly cloudy and winters are long, frigid and windy. Winter lasts for 9 months and the sun doesn’t rise for two months during the polar night. At -15° F, it has the coldest mean annual temperature. But in the winter, lows reach an extreme -63° F, making it the most glorious winter wonderland in the world.

While Americans (except those in Florida) are preparing for a snowy season, residents of Norilsk in Russia are already drowning in a vast sea of snow. With the continuous five-day snowfall befalling the city, residents are now getting two months worth of snow. So, a ‘White Christmas’ has essentially began in Norilsk. The brutal cold paired with icy wind gusts, locals could only watch in awe as the thick layer of snow buried their cars and their homes. To show the world what it’s like in Norilsk now, residents are sharing photos of their current situation on Instagram.

 

People In Norilsk, Russia Are Sharing Photos Of Their Current Situation

 

 

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If darkness, isolation and mountains of ice are your thing then Norilsk might just be the perfect destination for you. Well, as long as you don’t mind digging out your car from a pile of snow every so often. Unfortunately, Norilsk is listed as a ‘closed city’ since 2001. It has a permanent population of 175,000 and only accepts a limited number of tourists. The Norilsk Development Agency reports that the city only allows about 200 visitors a year. If you really want to visit the place, you will need to obtain special permission. But take note that you’ll only be granted entry if you have a really good reason for travel.

 

 

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There’s actually a valid reason why this particular city is closed to foreigners. Aside from its sub-zero temperature and gloomy skies, Norilsk’s hazardous mining industry has made it the one of the most polluted places in the world. The city has prospered as the world’s largest producer of palladium, a compound that is highly toxic and can be fatal if ingested, inhaled or absorbed through the skin. Extreme pollution and harsh weather have the locals spending most of their time inside their homes. Well, the coldest place on Earth isn’t always the cleanest. Besides, there are other beautiful cities in Russia that would welcome you with open arms and fresh, clean air.

 

So, Let’s Take A Look At More Snowy Photos

 

 

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