As residents of Bhopal woke up to a cold and misty morning on Saturday, the city reported temperatures well below normal. The temperature in the city was recorded at 22.6°C, with a significant drop in the minimum temperature, which had fallen to 9.6°C. This marks a departure of 9.3°C below the normal minimum temperature, continuing a trend of cooler-than-usual conditions in the city. Humidity levels remained high at 78%, although no rainfall was recorded in the last 24 hours. According to IMD, Bhopal and its surrounding areas can expect clear skies with mist in the morning hours.

 

The temperature is forecast to range from a maximum of 25°C to a minimum of 10°C. While a slight dip in temperature by 1-2°C is expected in the coming days, temperatures are expected to rise again by 2-3°C after that. Winds are expected to be light, with an average speed of 8-10 km/h. Across the State, maximum temperatures have fallen significantly in several districts. The highest temperature in the State was recorded at 31.5°C in Khandwa, while the lowest minimum temperature of 6.6°C was observed in Marukheda (Neemuch) and Rajgarh. In Bhopal, Ujjain, and Rewa divisions, maximum temperatures dipped appreciably, while temperatures in districts such as Narmadapuram and Gwalior saw a rise above normal.

 

The overall trend in Bhopal and Ujjain divisions reflected marked cooling, with temperatures remaining well below the usual January highs. Meanwhile, minimum temperatures in Bhopal, Ujjain, Gwalior, and Shahdol divisions saw a notable decline. However, regions like Indore and Narmadapuram recorded higher-than-normal minimum temperatures, contributing to a relatively warmer night compared to other parts of the State. According to IMD, the cold weather has prompted an advisory for districts with minimum temperatures below 8°C and maximum temperatures below 22°C.

 

These areas include Sehore, Rajgarh, Neemuch, Mandsaur, and Shajapur. Authorities are advised to consider declaring leaves for children in schools to protect them from the harsh conditions. Additionally, special arrangements are recommended in primary and community health centers to address any health concerns related to the cold. In other parts of the state, several cities reported minimum temperatures below 12°C. Notably, Marukheda (Neemuch), Rajgarh, and Girvar (Shajapur) recorded the lowest temperatures at 6.6°C, while the highest minimum temperature was reported at 14.7°C in Kannod (Dewas). Cities with the coldest weather were- Marukheda (Neemuch)/Rajgarh: 6.6°C, Girvar (Shajapur): 6.8°C, Khajuraho (Chhatarpur): 7.6°C Gwalior: 7.9°C, Chitrakoot (Satna), 8.3°C. Across the State, temperatures varied widely, with the following cities reporting the highest and lowest maximum temperatures. Highest maximum temperature were Khandwa: 31.5°C, Khargone: 31.4°C, Mandla: 29.2°C, Seoni: 28.4°C, Betul: 28.0°C. Lowest temperature were Girvar (Shajapur): 22.3°C, Sehore/Bhopal: 22.6°C, Aonwari (Ashoknagar): 23.2°C, Mandla: 29.2°C, Indore: 23.4°C. Meteorologists have also highlighted the presence of a subtropical westerly jet stream, which is currently affecting the Western Himalayan region. Core winds of up to 278 km/h are observed at an altitude of 12.6 km above sea level. The region will also be affected by a Western Disturbance expected to arrive around January 29, 2025. This disturbance is likely to bring changes in weather conditions across the region, possibly affecting temperatures and precipitation patterns. As cold conditions continue to affect the state, residents are urged to stay updated on the latest forecasts and take appropriate measures to stay warm. Special attention should be paid to vulnerable populations, including children and the elderly, to prevent cold-related health issues.