How to prepare for the snowy winter of 2026: to-do checklist

Forecasters expect an unstable and snowy winter with alternating frosts and thaws, as well as heavy precipitation. About how to prepare your house, car and your health for winter, see the Izvestia article.

Apartment preparation: warmth and safety

The main task in preparing housing for a snowy winter is to maintain stable heat and create a reserve in case of interruptions to utilities. In case of heavy snowfall and wind, accidents on power supply lines and overload of heating systems are possible, so it is better to check the insulation in advance.​

It is worth paying attention to several areas.​

• Insulation of windows and balconies: replacement of worn seals, use of sealing tape, dense curtains, if necessary — installation of additional frames or energy-saving double-glazed windows.​

• Inspection of the entrance door: removal of cracks, installation of thresholds and seals, door mats to reduce heat loss and moisture in the hallway.​

• Radiator condition monitoring: cleaning of dust and decorative screens that interfere with heat transfer, checking air plugs and control valves.​

• Organization of local heating: the use of certified heaters with protection against overheating and overturning, always with good wiring and without overloading the network.​

How to prepare a car for snow and ice

Preparing a car for a snowy winter is not only a change of rubber, but also a comprehensive diagnosis of the main systems on which safety on a slippery road depends. In winter, the risk of accidents increases due to increased braking distance, limited visibility, icing of the body and windows, as well as sudden battery failures in the cold.​

Checklist of car preparation for winter:

1. Tire replacement
   Switching to winter tires is recommended at a stable average temperature of about +5 degrees, while studded tires are more effective on icy roads, and friction ("Velcro") tires are more effective on rolled snow. It is important to check the tread depth and the absence of damage, as well as to adjust the tire pressure according to the manufacturer's recommendations.​

2. Battery and electrical diagnostics
   As the temperature drops, the battery capacity decreases, so before winter it is worth checking its charge, terminal condition and service life, and replacing it if necessary. At the same time, they check the serviceability of external lighting, brake lights and heating of windows and mirrors, which is critical in case of snowfall and fog.​

3. Fluids and safety systems
   The engine oil and coolant must comply with winter temperature conditions, especially when frosts are expected in January. In the washer tank, you need to fill the "frost-free" with a temperature reserve of at least -25 ...-30 degrees to avoid freezing on the highway. Experts recommend checking the brake system — pads, discs, brake fluid level — at the service station before heavy snowfall.​

4. Winter kit in the trunk
   Practice shows that during snowstorms and drifts, even in cities, you can get stuck in traffic or parking for a long time, so you should keep a basic "winter kit" in the trunk:

   • a snow scraper and brush, a folding shovel, gloves and a warm blanket;​

   • starting wires, tow rope, jack and emergency stop sign;

   • defrosting of locks and windows, a supply of non-freezing liquid;

   • a small supply of water and a snack in case of prolonged congestion or waiting for a tow truck.​

In addition, in winter, it is important to adjust the driving style — increasing the distance by at least 2-3 times, smooth braking and avoiding sudden maneuvers on snowy and icy roads. If heavy snowfall or ice is forecast, it is better to postpone unnecessary trips, and when leaving the city, inform your loved ones in advance of the route and the approximate time of arrival.​

How to prepare the immune system for winter

Snowy and wet winters with temperature fluctuations are traditionally accompanied by an increase in viral and colds, an exacerbation of chronic diseases and an increase in injuries caused by ice. A weakened body can hardly tolerate sudden cold weather, lack of sunlight and physical inactivity, so you should take care of your health in advance, before the onset of peak frosts in January.​

The basic directions of preparing the body for winter:

• normal sleep and regime: adults are recommended to sleep at least 6-8 hours a day, which supports the immune system and helps the body to better resist viruses;

• balanced nutrition: an increase in the proportion of vegetables, fruits, foods rich in vitamin C and D, as well as a sufficient amount of protein for tissue repair;

• Movement and hardening: regular walks, moderate physical activity and gradual hardening help to adapt to the cold and reduce sensitivity to temperature changes.;

• Chronic disease control: before winter, it is advisable to visit a specialist doctor, adjust therapy and make sure that the necessary medicines are at hand.​

It is also worth giving up bad habits and reducing stress levels in winter. Smoking, alcohol abuse and excess caffeine worsen the condition of blood vessels and reduce the body's defenses, which is especially dangerous against the background of frost and viral activity. Psychologists advise maintaining an emotional state through communication, hobbies, and light therapy, as well as spending more time in daylight as much as possible to alleviate the seasonal blues.​

Checklist for the family "How to prepare for a snowy winter"

In order not to miss important details, experts recommend breaking down winter preparations into simple steps and stretching them over several weeks. This approach allows you to check your home, equipment, car, and medical issues without haste, without waiting for the first extreme snowfalls and frosts.​

1. 1.5–2 months before the calendar winter
   During this period, it is advisable to do things that take time: check the windows and doors, if necessary, call the craftsmen, sign up for a comprehensive inspection of the car. In parallel, you can undergo a medical examination or a scheduled appointment with a doctor, adjust your diet and sleep patterns, and begin gentle hardening.​

2. 3-4 weeks before sustained subzero temperatures
   It is important to complete the "refueling" of the car, update the stock of winter fluids, and buy missing accessories like a scraper, brush, and shovel. At home, check the heating and radiators, prepare warm blankets, blankets and a basic supply of long—term storage products.​

3. With the onset of the first heavy snowfalls
   At this point, the focus shifts to current safety: use non‑slip shoes, keep a minimum first-aid kit and reflective elements, especially for children. Motorists should carefully monitor weather forecasts, avoid long-distance trips on days of heavy snowfall, and always have a charged phone and power bank in the cabin.​

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.