Residents of Ahmedabad woke up to the coldest morning of the season so far, as the city's mercury plunged to a new low. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded a minimum temperature of 11.6 degrees Celsius, marking the sharpest chill experienced this winter.
Ahmedabad and Gujarat Brace for Chilly Mornings
The recorded temperature on Sunday was not only lower than Friday's 11.7°C but also settled at 0.7 degrees below the normal for this time of year. The daytime didn't offer much respite either, with the maximum temperature peaking at 26.7°C, which is one degree below the normal maximum. The IMD attributes the dip to northeasterly to easterly winds prevailing across the region.
IMD's Forecast: A Temperature Rollercoaster Ahead
Looking ahead, the weather office has predicted a volatile pattern for Gujarat. For Monday, the minimum temperature in Ahmedabad is likely to be around 13°C. However, the broader forecast for the state indicates significant fluctuations. Over the next 48 hours, minimum temperatures are expected to rise by 2-3°C across most of Gujarat, except the Kutch region.
This brief warm-up will be short-lived. The IMD states, "Thereafter, fall by 2-3°C for the subsequent two days." Following this dip, no major change is anticipated. This forecast suggests residents should prepare for a see-saw effect in the night and morning temperatures in the coming days.
Statewide Chill: Naliya Records 3.8°C
The cold wave is not confined to Ahmedabad. Several other parts of Gujarat are experiencing even lower temperatures. Naliya recorded the state's season lowest minimum temperature at a frigid 3.8°C. Other cities and towns also reported chilly conditions:
- Amreli: 7.6°C
- Keshod: 8.5°C
- Kandla and Rajkot: 8.9°C
- Gandhinagar: 9.5°C
These readings highlight a widespread dip in nighttime temperatures across the state, impacting daily life and necessitating precautions against the cold, especially during early mornings and late evenings.
