Life in the Coldest City

What is it like to raise a family in the world's coldest city, where winter temperatures plummet to -64 degrees Celsius? Today, we explore the daily life of the largest family in Yakutsk, a family of 22 children who call this extreme place home.

Aleksandr Pavlov, the father, starts his day bright and early, heading outside to gather ice to ensure his family has enough clean drinking water. Raising 22 children is challenging, and it's even more so in Yakutsk. The Pavlov family lives in the suburbs of the city, where, like many others, they lack access to a central water supply. Instead, they rely on water reserve containers for their daily activities.

Meanwhile, Oksana, Aleksandr's wife, wakes up their children. Oksana and Aleksandr are loving parents to 22 children, 18 of whom are adopted. Their family spans a wide age range, from the eldest, who is 37 years old, to the youngest, who is just 6. The youngest members of their family are Sofia, Ramina, and Nastya. Ramina, 9, attends the local primary school, while 6-year-old Nastya goes to a nearby nursery.

Today, Ramina has a day off because her primary school doesn't operate when it's -45 degrees outside. However, the nursery remains open even when it's as cold as -55 degrees, so Nastya still has to go. The temperature outside is -48 degrees, which is common in Yakutia. As part of Aleksandr’s morning routine, he checks the heating to ensure his family stays warm. Despite the extreme cold, they rely on two gas boilers to keep their home comfortably warm at 25 degrees. Considering the size of their 3,800-square-foot home, heating costs are quite reasonable, around $200 a month.

By 7:40 a.m., all the kids are awake and getting ready for school, nursery, and university. The Pavlov family has 14 kids living with them now, while 8 are married and have their own families but often visit. Despite having a big house, the Pavlov family still faces the daily challenge of a bathroom queue each morning.

As the children get ready, Oksana prepares breakfast—traditional Yakutian pancakes, a high-energy food that keeps them warm. Managing schedules for such a large family can be overwhelming, so establishing routines and delegating tasks is essential. The children are always eager to help, making breakfast a team effort.

After breakfast, it's time for school. Archilaana, 14, has three years left before graduating and is considering becoming an actress, dentist, or singer. Her school day runs from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and she must pass the Unified State Exam to get into university. Competition for scholarships is tough, so she's determined not to miss school, even in extreme cold.

The older siblings look after the younger ones, ensuring they reach the nursery and school safely. The eldest members attend the local university in the city center. In a city with no subway or other public transportation options apart from buses, their daily commute relies on taking the bus. In Yakutsk, buses are painted red for visibility in thick fog, making them easier to spot from afar.

Meanwhile, some kids help their parents around the house. Despite the cold, they enjoy playing outside, relishing activities like snow slides, ice skating, and skiing. When it becomes too cold, they move their play indoors, engaging in games like chess.

Aleksandr takes fitness seriously and has built an indoor gym where the kids train. The eldest children are involved in professional sports, participating and winning in competitions. Aleksandr believes the cold weather makes them stronger and more resilient.

Even in extreme cold, the Pavlovs maintain their routines. Aleksandr cooks outside on his special stove, and the frosty air gives the meat a unique flavor. Oksana, with the help of the older girls, prepares dinner, which often includes fish and Yakutian fried pies filled with meat and rice. Vegetables and fruits are rare in Yakutia, so they often consume preserved frozen berries.

As night falls and temperatures plunge lower, the Pavlov family gathers for a hearty soup dinner, a daily tradition that warms their bodies and souls. Nestled in their warm home, they embody resilience and the enduring strength of family.

Thank you for joining us on this extraordinary journey into the lives of the Pavlov family. Until next time, stay warm and keep the spirit of adventure alive.