India Braces for a Chilly Winter: Temperatures Could Plummet to 3 Degrees

Get ready to bundle up! India is gearing up for a potentially harsh winter this year, with temperatures in some states expected to drop as low as 3 degrees Celsius. This significant dip in temperatures could lead to severe cold waves and impact daily life across the country.

india braces for a chilly winter this year

So, on September 2, 2024, the IMD gave us a heads-up that we might be in for a pretty intense winter this year. La Niña usually kicks off between April and June, really picking up steam between October and February. It can stick around for anywhere between nine to twelve months – sometimes even up to two years! During La Niña, strong winds push ocean waters westward, cooling things down. It’s the opposite of El Niño, which tends to heat things up a bit.

Have you noticed how the La Niña phenomenon is already making its presence felt? In India, the monsoon, which usually wraps up by September, is hanging around a little longer this year. Turns out, the ocean's surface has cooled down, shaking up the usual weather patterns. Because of that, the rainy season is sticking around, especially bringing extra showers to southern and central parts of the country.

What's causing this cold snap?

Several factors are contributing to the anticipated extreme winter:

1) La Niña: This climate pattern, characterized by cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean, often leads to colder winters in India.

2) Western Disturbances: These weather systems, which originate in the Mediterranean Sea, can bring cold air masses to the Indian subcontinent. 

3) Siberian High Influence: Cold air from the Siberian High is also a critical factor, contributing to severe cold waves in northern India. This high-pressure system accumulates cold, dry air, which can lead to significant drops in temperature during winter months

4) Geographical factors: Certain regions of India, especially the northern and northwestern parts, are naturally prone to colder temperatures during winter.

States likely to be Affected

Northern Plains: States like Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan could experience the most severe cold waves.

Himalayan regions: Areas like Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand are likely to face freezing temperatures.

Central India: Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh might also experience below-average temperatures.

What to expect

Cold waves: Intense periods of cold weather can lead to health problems, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly, children, and those with chronic illnesses.

Fog: Dense fog can disrupt transportation, reduce visibility, and contribute to accidents.

Crop damage: Extreme cold can harm crops, affecting agricultural production and food prices.

How to stay safe during the winter

Dress warmly: Wear layers of clothing, including a hat, gloves, and scarf, to protect yourself from the cold.

Stay indoors: Limit outdoor activities during the coldest hours of the day.

Keep yourself hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, even though you may not feel thirsty.

Check on elderly neighbors: Ensure that elderly individuals have access to warmth, food, and essential supplies.

Follow weather updates: Stay informed about the latest weather forecasts and advisories.

As India braces for a potentially harsh winter, it's essential to be prepared and take necessary precautions to stay safe and healthy. By following these guidelines, you can minimize the impact of cold weather on your life.