Delhi experienced its coldest morning of the season on Thursday, with the temperature dropping to 4.5°C, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This marks a significant dip in temperatures, with Wednesday’s minimum recorded at 4.9°C. The IMD noted that this is the first time in 14 years that early December temperatures have fallen below 5°C. Historical data reveals that the lowest December minimum temperature was recorded on December 6, 1987, at 4.1°C.
The IMD has predicted that cold wave conditions will continue in Delhi from December 11 to 13. While there were no recorded cold wave days in December 2022 and 2023, November 2020 did witness similar conditions, with temperatures plunging to 7.5°C. A cold wave is classified when the minimum temperature is 4.5°C to 6.4°C below the normal day temperature. If the departure exceeds 6.4°C, it is termed a “severe cold wave.”
The cold wave also impacted parts of Rajasthan, where temperatures dropped significantly over the past 24 hours. The Jaipur Meteorological Centre reported that Sikar recorded the lowest minimum temperature at 1.5°C on Tuesday night. Extreme cold wave conditions were observed in isolated locations, while several areas reported cold wave conditions.
According to the IMD, the minimum temperature across various locations in Rajasthan ranged between 1.5°C and 10.8°C. Cold day conditions were noted in some areas, while most of the state experienced dry weather. The weather department continues to monitor the situation closely as cold air tightens its grip on northern India.
With temperatures expected to remain low, residents in Delhi and Rajasthan are advised to take precautions against the chilly winds. The IMD’s forecast highlights the need for preparedness as chilly winds continue to dominate the region.
