Sudden Temperature Jump in Poland: African Air Brings Early Spring

The last days of February 2026 bring a spectacular turn in the weather, which forecasters call a "heat bomb." An unusually warm, tropical air of African origin has begun flowing into the country in a wide stream. This phenomenon will cause Poland to split into a warmer west and a slightly cooler east this coming weekend, although on a national scale we can speak of the arrival of phenological early spring. The highest thermometer readings will be recorded by residents of Lubusz Land and Lower Silesia, where temperatures may reach even 19-20 degrees Celsius. In Kraków and other cities in the south of the country, the first blooming snowdrops have already been observed, which is a direct signal of nature awakening. The influx of tropical air masses in February is an anomaly, although it has occurred before in the history of Polish meteorology. The highest temperature for this month was recorded in 1990 in Maków Podhalański, when thermometers showed 21.4 degrees Celsius. The current situation is approaching these historical maxima. Despite the attractive weather conducive to walks, the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management has issued a series of warnings. The sudden temperature rise leads to rapid melting of the snow cover in the mountains and the north of the country. The most difficult situation is currently in Pomerania, where alerts have been announced regarding the exceedance of warning water levels. Furthermore, scientists point out the need to adapt field work to the new climate reality. Farmers are already preparing to apply the first dose of nitrogen to wheat and rapeseed, but they note that the meltwater must first soak into the soil to allow heavy equipment onto the fields. Although the weekend promises to be sunny, experts temper enthusiasm, indicating that March may still bring returns of frosty, Arctic air. 20°C — the temperature in western Poland may reach by the end of February It is worth emphasizing that despite the truly spring-like Sunday on March 1st, large retail establishments will remain closed. According to the law restricting trade, the first Sunday of March 2026 is a trade-free day, which is worth considering when planning weekend activities. Instead of shopping, forecasters encourage outdoor activity, as such high temperatures in February may not repeat for decades. However, with the warming comes an increased risk of strong wind gusts accompanying atmospheric front changes, which may lead to local damage to energy infrastructure and tree stands.

Perspektywy mediów: Liberal media emphasize the influence of climate change on weather anomalies and encourage appreciating moments of sunshine. Conservative media focus on practical aspects for agriculture and warnings about dangerous phenomena.