Orthodox Christians Celebrate Epiphany with Ice Water Plunges Despite Challenges

Traditional icy dips mark the Orthodox Epiphany, but warm weather and environmental concerns disrupt ceremonies in parts of Russia.

• Orthodox Christians across Russia and neighboring countries celebrated Epiphany by plunging into icy waters, commemorating the baptism of Jesus Christ in the River Jordan.
• Unseasonably warm temperatures led to the cancellation of some ceremonies due to thin ice, particularly in regions like Saratov and Karelia.
• In Anapa, southern Russia, Epiphany dips proceeded despite ongoing contamination from a major oil spill caused by two tanker accidents in December, raising environmental and health concerns.
• Russian President Vladimir Putin has described the oil spill, which released over 2,400 tonnes of heavy fuel oil, as a significant environmental crisis, with cleanup efforts still underway.
• Meteorologists note that warming trends in Russia are making extreme weather events more common, impacting traditional winter activities like Epiphany celebrations.

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