Severe weather has caused ice formations along the shores of Lithuania and Latvia, with the possibility of significant ice movement towards the shoreline due to changing wind patterns.
Severe cold weather has led to the formation of ice near the shores of Lithuania, visible from satellite images since late January. The area covered by marine ice has been increasing, further aided by recent snowfall on the formed ice and sea surface. As winds are expected to shift from the sea towards the shore, it is predicted that not only will sea levels rise but also marine ice will start moving closer towards land, potentially creating a striking landscape visible from beaches such as in Palanga or Å ventoji, where observers might witness vast fields of ice blown in by the wind.
The last significant ice formation in the Baltic Sea was recorded in the latter half of the winter of 2011, highlighting the rarity of such phenomena in recent years. Current observations noted by meteorologist G. Valaika indicate that while the sea wasn’t completely frozen back then, the coastal visibility was greatly affected by the ice. The presence of ice and snow on the water could create unique situations for beachgoers and locals observing these natural changes in their environment.
In Latvia, interesting phenomena have already been noted, with visuals shared from Ventspils showing ice sliding towards the shore. These natural occurrences spark curiosity and concern about the effects of climate change and extreme weather patterns affecting the Baltic region, particularly how such events may become more common in the future as weather patterns shift.
