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India Braces for Extended Cold Wave This Winter, IMD Warns
New Delhi, December 1, 2023 – The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning that India is likely to experience a prolonged cold wave season this winter, with the number of cold wave days potentially doubling compared to previous years.
Regions including Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, Northern Madhya Pradesh, Western Maharashtra, and Arunachal Pradesh are expected to be particularly affected. Residents are advised to prepare for an extended period of intense cold, potentially lasting 8-10 days, compared to the typical 4-6 days.
An area is declared under a cold wave when a weather station records a temperature of 10 degrees Celsius or below, or when the temperature is 4.5 degrees Celsius below the normal temperature for that location.
IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra stated that while the normal winter season spans from December to February, temperatures in central and northwestern India are predicted to remain at or below normal this year. While some parts of the country might experience temperatures above the minimum normal, most regions are expected to remain colder than usual.
The first bout of cold weather already occurred between November 8th and 20th, with cold wave conditions observed in parts of Rajasthan, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh. The IMD anticipates a second cold wave spell between December 3rd and 5th.
Mohapatra attributed the increased likelihood of cold waves to several factors, including western disturbances and the influence of events like the “La Niña” phenomenon (characterized by abnormally low sea surface temperatures), although he clarified that the La Niña doesn’t have a direct correlation. He also mentioned the impact of the polar vortex, the circulation of cold air around the Earth’s poles, noting that while the Himalayas offer some protection, India may still experience indirect effects. The recent cyclone Dithwah near Sri Lanka, which brings rain and consequently lower temperatures, may also contribute.
The IMD advises citizens to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the anticipated cold wave conditions.
First Piper 