The last day of February 2026 brings unprecedented warming, with temperatures locally reaching 18 degrees Celsius. While residents in many regions enjoy spring-like weather, hydrological services maintain alerts for snowmelt. The situation is complicated by a serious failure of the heating network in Wrocław, leaving thousands without heating, and flood warnings in France, where an orange vigilance level has been introduced.
Extreme warming in the country
Temperatures in Poland are reaching 18 degrees Celsius, a record value for the last day of February.
Hydrological alerts and snowmelt
IMGW maintains yellow alerts for snowmelt; river levels are rising, and an orange vigilance level is in effect in France.
Heating network failure in Wrocław
A serious failure of the heating network has left residents in a large part of the city without heating for over 48 hours.
Poland has come under the influence of an exceptionally warm air mass, leading to thermal anomalies unprecedented for this time of year. According to data from the IMGW, mercury levels could reach up to 18 degrees Celsius over the weekend, encouraging residents to engage in outdoor activities. However, this sudden "explosion of warmth" carries significant risks. Rapid thawing has caused water levels in rivers, particularly in the Vistula and Oder basins, to rise sharply, triggering numerous hydrological warnings. A crisis situation has occurred in Wrocław, where a major failure of the heating network took place. Thousands of residents in the capital of Lower Silesia have been without heating and hot water for over 48 hours, which contrasts with the exceptionally sunny weather forecast for the city. Meanwhile, in the mountains, despite high temperatures in the valleys, trail conditions remain difficult and could surprise unprepared hikers. Agricultural experts point out that the premature start of vegetation forces immediate cleanup work in gardens and fields, including lawn liming or fertilizing winter crops. Historically, February in Poland was a month of deep winter; for example, in 1929, record-breaking frosts exceeding -40 degrees were recorded. The current anomalies, bringing temperatures close to April values, are treated by climatologists as evidence of progressing climate warming.The weather situation is also dynamic in other parts of Europe. In France, meteorological services have maintained an orange alert for three departments due to the risk of flooding and river surges. Although the current weekend is marked by almost summer-like records, forecasters warn of the possibility of winter's return in March. Intense snowfall and frosts are predicted then, which could be devastating for plants that have already begun development under the influence of February warmth. „Żółte alarmy nadal w mocy. IMGW ostrzega przed roztopami.” (Yellow alerts still in effect. IMGW warns of snowmelt.) — IMGW Statement The hydrological threat remains a key topic of public discussion. While some voices predict summer drought due to the rapid runoff of meltwater, hydrologists emphasize that the current priority is monitoring flood risks. Rapid melting of the snow cover without adequate retention is a challenge for the state's water management.
Perspektywy mediów: Media emphasize the impact of global warming on weather anomalies and call for systemic changes in water retention. Focus on practical aspects of spring field work and downplaying anomalies as part of natural variability in cycles.