Cold conditions continued to prevail across Madhya Pradesh, with Khajuraho recording a minimum temperature of 3.4 degrees Celsius for the second consecutive day, making it the coldest place in the State. The persistent drop in night temperatures, coupled with winds blowing at 12-14 km per hour, has significantly added to the chill factor, especially during late night and early morning hours. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the weather remained dry in all divisions of the State during the last 24 hours.

 

The impact of a cold wave was observed in Khajuraho (Chhatarpur), Datia and Shivpuri districts, while cold day conditions prevailed in Tikamgarh and Sheopur. Severe cold day conditions were reported from Khajuraho, Nowgong (Chhatarpur), Prithvipur (Niwari), Datia and Gwalior districts. Maximum temperatures were markedly below normal by over 6°C in Gwalior division, appreciably below normal in parts of Chambal, Rewa and Sagar divisions, while they remained above normal in Bhopal and Shahdol divisions. Minimum temperatures were slightly below normal in Bhopal, Gwalior, Chambal and Rewa divisions, and near normal elsewhere. Dense to very dense fog was reported at several places. Very dense fog was observed in Gwalior, while dense fog affected Khajuraho and Datia.

 

Moderate fog was seen in Satna, and shallow fog in Nowgong and Sidhi, reducing visibility during morning hours and impacting road and rail movement. IMD officials explained that the prevailing cold conditions are due to an active western disturbance over north Pakistan and adjoining Punjab, along with an induced cyclonic circulation over Haryana. Additionally, a strong subtropical westerly jet stream with very high wind speeds continues to influence northwest India, contributing to cold winds and lower temperatures over the region.

 

Weather warnings have been issued for dense fog, cold wave and cold day conditions at isolated places in Gwalior, Datia, Bhind, Panna, Chhatarpur, Tikamgarh, Niwari and Morena districts, while fog warnings have also been issued for parts of Rewa, Satna, Singrauli, Sidhi, Mauganj, Shivpuri and Sheopur. People have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel during dense fog, drive cautiously with fog lights, and take adequate precautions against cold-related health issues. Bhopal recorded a minimum temperature of 8°C and a maximum of 27.2°C during the last 24 hours. The city experienced clear skies with haze and mist during morning hours, along with moderate winds of 12–14 km per hour, enhancing the feeling of cold. Humidity stood at 70 per cent in the morning, while no rainfall was recorded.