However, southern Russia dealt with fleeting snow cover, though the coldest weather was coincident with sufficient snow insulation.
Precipitation averaged near to above normal in Ukraine as well as western and northern Russia (mostly falling as snow).
In contrast, dry weather (20-60 percent of normal) was reported in the Russia’s Southern District, but the lack of agricultural activity minimized the impacts of the dryness.
Overall, soil moisture reserves remained adequate for spring growth.