Today’s Weather Update: Cold Winds from the North Intensify Chill; High Alert Issued for Severe Cold Wave in 4 Maharashtra Districts
Weather Alert in Maharashtra For January 8: Cold Wave Returns, Fog and Temperature Dip Likely Over Next 24 Hours
Mumbai, December 15: Cold conditions continue to grip Maharashtra as northerly winds intensify the winter chill across several regions. While there is no major fluctuation in overall temperatures, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a high alert for an intense cold wave in Dhule, Jeur, Niphad and Parbhani, where minimum temperatures have dropped sharply.
According to weather officials, the third week of December has witnessed a noticeable increase in cold intensity, with biting winds and dense fog affecting daily life. Several parts of the state are experiencing bone-chilling mornings and nights, forcing citizens to take extra precautions against the cold.
Slight Relief Expected, No Major Temperature Change
The IMD has forecast a slight rise in minimum temperatures over the next few days in Vidarbha, Marathwada and parts of Central Maharashtra, offering limited relief to residents. However, the department has clarified that no significant change in temperature is expected across Maharashtra over the next seven days.
Weather experts say that although cold wave conditions and fog will persist, the severity may gradually reduce due to changing wind patterns.
North India Impact to Influence Maharashtra
In north-west India, temperatures are expected to drop by around 2°C between December 16 and 18, followed by a similar rise over the subsequent four days. This shift is likely to have an indirect impact on Maharashtra, slightly easing the cold wave intensity in the state.
Weather expert Shashikant Mishra stated that while Maharashtra will not witness drastic temperature changes, the evolving weather systems over north and west India may lead to a gradual reduction in cold wave conditions.
Severe Cold in Four Districts
The districts of Dhule, Jeur, Niphad and Parbhani remain under high alert, with minimum temperatures recorded between 5°C and 6°C. The sharp drop is attributed to cold northerly winds, and experts warn that due to the La Niña effect, cold conditions are likely to persist until January.
Dense Fog and Travel Advisory
Dense fog continues to blanket northern states bordering Maharashtra, potentially disrupting flight schedules and long-distance train services. Passengers travelling to or via Delhi and Uttar Pradesh are advised to check updated travel advisories before departure.
Rainfall Update
In the last 24 hours, heavy rainfall of 7 cm was recorded at one station in the Andaman Islands. The IMD has predicted light to moderate rain with gusty winds over the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the next 24 hours. Additionally, coastal Tamil Nadu may experience light to moderate rainfall and thunderstorms on December 16 and 17.
