Weather Alert: IMD Warns Of Chilled Week In Northern States; Check Latest Forecast For The Next 2 Days

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a dip in temperatures from January 5 to 11, triggering cold wave conditions across certain northern states.

Dr. Mrutynjay Mohapatra, IMD Director General said that during this period, a decrease in night temperatures might lead to cold wave conditions in parts of central India. Daytime temperatures are also expected to be below average, particularly in Madhya Pradesh, northern Maharashtra, southern Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Rajasthan, fostering cold day conditions.

He noted the formation of a low-pressure area over the southeast Arabian Sea, resulting in cloud cover over regions in Lakshadweep and the Maldives Islands. The IMD forecasts heavy rainfall and strong winds (up to 40-50 kmph) in Lakshadweep over the next three days, advising fishermen against venturing into the sea.

During a monthly forecast for January, Mohapatra projected normal rainfall over the January-February-March period. He highlighted that 2023 ranked as the country's second warmest year since 1901, with the annual mean air temperature surpassing the norm by 0.65 degrees Celsius. The warmest year on record was 2016, when the annual mean air temperature exceeded the norm by 0.710 degrees Celsius.

The forecast indicates relatively warmer mornings in most parts of the country. Central and northwestern regions are expected to witness cooler days, with below-normal monthly maximum temperatures predicted. However, southern peninsular and northeastern India are likely to experience warmer days, with above-normal monthly maximum temperatures anticipated for January.

IMD's predictions also include dense to very dense fog over certain plains in northwest and East India, extending into parts of Bangladesh. Furthermore, cold-day to severe cold-day conditions are expected to persist in areas of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and northern Rajasthan for the next two days.