Frosts up to -23: Ukrenergo warns of additional power outages.

According to ТСН: The main threat to stable electricity supply in Ukraine remains the shelling of energy facilities. Cold weather down to -23 degrees is not a critical factor by itself, but, likely, there will be more power outages.

Expert Opinions

Ukrenergo CEO Vitaliy Zaychenko noted in his comment:

"A decrease in temperature always leads to an increase in electricity consumption, this is natural. But it is not the frost, but the Russian shelling that is currently our main problem."

If the air temperature drops to -20 degrees for several days, stricter restrictions may be introduced to stabilize the energy system:

"Approximately — this is one additional shift in the schedule of hourly outages."

As of early October 2025, the energy system was ready for winter. However, massive missile strikes by the Russian Federation worsened the situation and necessitated the introduction of electricity supply restrictions.

Risks from Russian Shelling

Zaychenko also noted that the biggest risk remains the strikes by the Russian Federation on energy infrastructure, especially during severe frosts. He added:

"It is simply impossible to predict the consequences of Russian strikes before or during significant cold weather."

Currently, meteorologists predict that heavy snowfall and arctic cold will cover Ukraine from January 8 to 11. In some regions, significant snowfalls, wet snow, blizzards, and wind gusts of up to 18 m/s are expected.

Energy expert Stanislav Ignatiev also warned that Ukrainians should be prepared for the fact that outage schedules may last until the end of winter. The worst-case scenario envisions massive strikes with an interval of five days, which may lead large cities to switch to ‘energy island’ mode.

Thus, under the constant threats of bombardments and cold weather, it is important to remain aware of possible power outages and take necessary measures to keep homes warm. Energy workers continue to work to ensure reliable electricity supply, but given the unpredictable shelling, the situation remains tense.