WHILE there was no significant change in maximum and minimum temperatures, the impact of a cold wave was observed in Girvar area of Shajapur district, and fog affected several parts of the state, especially during late night and early morning hours. Maximum temperatures across the State largely remained near normal, though they were 1.8°C to 1.9°C above normal in parts of the Bhopal and Gwalior divisions. Minimum temperatures showed a similar trend, staying mostly normal, but were 2.4°C below normal in districts of the Bhopal division, indicating cooler nights.

 

The lowest minimum temperature was recorded at 4.6°C in Kalyanpur (Shahdol) and Girvar (Shajapur). Other cold locations included Karoundi (Katni) at 4.7°C and Mandsaur at 4.8°C. On the warmer side, Narmadapuram recorded the highest minimum temperature at 14.0°C, followed by Dhar (13.6°C) and Betul (13.0°C). Day temperatures also showed variation. The lowest maximum temperature was observed at Chitrakoot (Satna) with 21.2°C, while Narmadapuram recorded the highest maximum temperature at 30.3°C, making it the warmest place in the State. Indore recorded a maximum of 28.8°C, while Ujjain touched 29.0°C. From a synoptic point of view, weather conditions are being influenced by a strong subtropical westerly jet stream, with core winds of around 232 kmph at about 12.6 km above mean sea level, prevailing over northwest India.

 

Additionally, a fresh western disturbance, seen as a trough in the middle and upper tropospheric westerlies, is passing north of Madhya Pradesh. Another western disturbance is likely to affect northwest India from January 19, which may influence weather conditions in the coming days. Due to these systems, no major change in temperature is expected over the next 48 hours, followed by a gradual rise of 2-3°C. Fog conditions were reported across several districts. Moderate fog prevailed at isolated places in Gwalior district, while shallow fog was observed in Bhopal, Khajuraho (Chhatarpur), Satna, Rewa and Datia. IMD has warned that fog may reduce visibility, particularly during early morning hours, affecting road, rail and air transport. In Bhopal, the weather remained clear with light haze.

 

The maximum temperature recorded was 26.8°C, which is 1.8°C above normal, while the minimum temperature dropped to 8.0°C, significantly below normal. At 8:30 am, humidity levels were high at 91 per cent, contributing to hazy conditions. Winds were light, blowing at a speed of 8-10 kmph. No rainfall was recorded in the city. The forecast for Bhopal and surrounding areas indicate clear skies with haze, with temperatures expected to range around 27°C (maximum) and 9°C (minimum). IMD has advised people to take precautions during fog and cold wave conditions, especially during early morning and night hours.

 

Commuters are urged to travel carefully, while elderly people, children and those with respiratory problems are advised to keep themselves adequately warm. Farmers have also been advised to protect crops and livestock from cold and prolonged fog, ensure proper ventilation in animal shelters, and monitor crops for diseases due to excess moisture.