Pune Records Coldest First Half of December in Over a Decade
Pune has recorded its coldest start to December in ten years, with the first fortnight of 2025 seeing an unusually intense early-winter chill. Data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reveals that the average minimum temperature between December 1 and 15 stood at 10.66°C, a significant drop from the 13°C to 15°C averages typically seen during this period over the last decade.
A Record-Breaking Chill
This winter marks a departure from recent trends, characterized by a high frequency of single-digit nights.
- Consecutive Cold Days: The Shivajinagar weather station recorded single-digit temperatures for eight consecutive days this month, the longest such streak since at least 2018.
- Season’s Lowest: The mercury dipped to its lowest point so far on December 11, reaching 7.9°C.
- Comparison: Between December 9 and 15, Pune experienced seven nights below 10°C. In contrast, the same period in 2024 saw only one such night, while 2016 recorded five.
Meteorological Factors
Meteorologists attribute this sharp decline to a combination of atmospheric conditions:
- Northerly Winds: Persistent cold, dry winds from the north and northwest have consistently swept across Maharashtra.
- Radiational Cooling: Exceptionally clear skies at night and low humidity levels allowed heat to escape the earth’s surface rapidly after sunset.
- La Niña Influence: Experts have also linked the intensity of this year’s winter to active La Niña conditions, which are known to enhance cold-wave frequency in central India.
Air Quality Concerns
While the cold has brought a classic winter feel, it has negatively impacted the city’s air quality. The average Air Quality Index (AQI) has remained above 200, categorized as “unhealthy”. Low wind speeds and “temperature inversion”—where a layer of warm air traps cold air and pollutants near the ground—have prevented the dispersal of smog and particulate matter.
Outlook and Health Advisory
The IMD suggests that while a slight warming trend was briefly observed around December 17 due to easterly winds, temperatures are expected to fluctuate. Residents are advised to:
- Dress in multiple loose layers to retain body heat.
- Consult the IMD Pune official website for real-time weather alerts and localized forecasts.
- Monitor air quality levels via the SAFAR-India platform before engaging in outdoor morning activities.
