Several model-based assessments predict a discernible increase in the depth of

seasonal thawing and circumpolar-scale warming of permafrost by the mid-21st century.

Quantitative estimates of the environmental and socioeconomic impacts of changing

climate in northern regions require robust projection of changes in permafrost, which in

turn depend on the availability of appropriate models and forcing data. We examined

four high-resolution, hemispheric-scale gridded sets of monthly temperature and

Russia is facing climatic changes that are more pronounced than in many other parts of the world. While

such changes have already led to environmental and socio-economical impacts, it is still debatable whether

climate change should become a matter of concern for the policymakers, business society, and population in

Russia, and whether development of the climate adaptation policies should be given high priority. The problem

is complicated by distinct differences in recent climate changes across the country, and by the absence