On the night of Sunday, Denmark experienced its coldest temperature this February, with Holbæk recording a chilling -16.6 degrees Celsius. This marked the lowest temperature recorded nationwide for the month in 2026, highlighting the intense weather conditions affecting the country. According to Søren Willatzen, the meteorologist on duty at the Danish Meteorological Institute (DMI), these extreme lows were largely due to clear skies over the eastern half of the country and northeastern Jutland.

The clear skies allowed heat to escape, leading to significant local temperature drops, particularly in areas already covered by snow. Willatzen explained that clear conditions at night often result in sharper declines in temperature, as clouds that would typically help retain warmth are absent. The cold snap has shown stark temperature variations across Denmark, where the eastern regions faced severe cold while other areas, especially large portions of Jutland, experienced comparatively milder conditions.

This sharp contrast in temperatures underlines the complexity of winter weather patterns, influenced by local geography and existing snow cover. Such cold fronts can have various implications, including impacts on travel, agriculture, and the daily routines of residents. The meteorological insights offered by DMI, particularly during these extreme weather events, are crucial for the public and government planning, as they navigate the challenges posed by such frigid temperatures.