In an isolated part of Siberia, where winter temperatures can drop to a chilling -64°C, one family has mastered the art of survival as part of their daily life.
The Pavlov family, residing in Yakutsk (the world’s coldest city), live a life that most would find unimaginable. Their windows are blanketed with frost for months, cars become frozen statues overnight, and gathering ice to melt for drinking water is a routine morning task.
However, beyond the icy surroundings and snow-laden rooftops lies a narrative filled with warmth, love, and significant logistical challenges. Aleksandr and Oksana Pavlov, parents to 22 children (18 of whom are adopted), have created a household reliant on teamwork, structure, and immense patience. Their 3,800-square-foot home is situated on the edges of Yakutsk, lacking guaranteed central heating and running water.
Unlike other families with 22 children, they haven’t faced court issues or extravagant $70,000 Disneyland trips.
Their story, shared on YouTube, is notable not only for the extreme temperatures but also for the incredible coordination required to keep everyone fed, warm, and punctual. Amidst the chaos, they’ve revealed three major challenges of raising such a large family in the world’s coldest inhabited city.
Firstly, there’s the bathroom lineup. With 14 children still at home, mornings are a race against time. YouTuber Kiun B notes: “Despite having a big house, the Pavlov family still faces the daily challenge of a bathroom queue each morning.”
Managing to get everyone out the door for school, nursery, and university prep before 8 am is a major achievement.
Next is the challenge of meal times. The Pavlovs have a single kitchen, and with so many mouths to feed, space is at a premium.
They have devised a daily system to ensure efficiency. In the complete video below, Kiun B describes: “They are eating in a two-row, with the youngest children eating together first, followed by the eldest.”
This offers a glimpse into how order is preserved in their lively household.
Lastly, there’s the daily journey to school in temperatures that can cause exposed skin to freeze. Most schools remain open until temperatures drop below -45°C, while nurseries operate even at -55°C.
The children dress in insulated trousers and heavy parkas before heading out. Older siblings take care of their younger ones, ensuring they ‘arrive [at] school safely’ before the cold becomes overwhelming.
Despite everything, the Pavlovs cherish their way of life.
Oksana, once a teacher, expresses: “We feel blessed to have such a large and loving family.”
Even as the winters grow harsher, Aleksandr believes the conditions strengthen them, saying: “I believe the cold weather makes us resilient and hardworking.”