**Colder Winter Ahead for Central and Northwest India, IMD Warns**
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning of a colder winter for central India, northwest regions, and peninsular areas. According to the IMD, normal to below-normal temperatures are anticipated in these regions throughout the three-month winter season, which spans from December to February.
In an online press conference, IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra noted that while central India and its neighboring northwest and peninsular regions are expected to experience lower temperatures, the western Himalayan region, the foothills of the Himalayas, northeastern states, and parts of eastern and western India may see above-normal maximum temperatures.
The IMD forecasts an additional four to five days of cold wave conditions in states such as Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, and certain areas of Maharashtra. Typically, these regions experience four to six days of cold wave conditions during the winter months.
Mohapatra stated, “During the upcoming winter season, normal to below-normal minimum temperatures are likely over most parts of central India and adjoining peninsular and northwest India. Above-normal minimum temperatures are expected in the remaining parts of the country.” He added that maximum temperatures are also projected to be normal to below normal across most regions.
The first cold wave spell of the season began early, affecting isolated areas in west, central, and adjoining east India, particularly northeast Rajasthan, south Haryana, north Madhya Pradesh, south Uttar Pradesh, and north Chhattisgarh, between November 8 and 18, with additional impacts noted in north interior Maharashtra on November 15 and 20. Another cold wave is anticipated in parts of northwest and central India from December 3 to 5.
The IMD chief also mentioned the expected continuation of weak La Niña conditions during the December to February period. La Niña is characterized by the cooling of ocean surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, which can influence tropical atmospheric circulation, leading to colder winters in northern India.
Most regions of the country, with the exception of parts of southeastern peninsular India, northeastern states, and areas in the extreme northwest, recorded normal to below-normal temperatures in November. Four western disturbances, which are rain-bearing weather systems originating from the Mediterranean region, have impacted temperatures in north India, although most of these disturbances were predominantly dry.
In summary, as winter approaches, residents of central and northwest India should prepare for colder conditions, while some areas may experience warmer temperatures. The IMD’s forecasts highlight the variability in winter weather patterns across the country.
**FAQ**
**Q: What can residents expect from the upcoming winter season in India?**
A: Residents can expect colder temperatures in central and northwest India, with the possibility of additional cold wave days, while some regions may experience above-normal temperatures.
