The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a significant weather bulletin, forecasting a mixed bag of winter conditions across the country starting Wednesday, December 5. The forecast, valid until December 10, indicates the onset of colder temperatures, reduced visibility due to fog, and isolated rainfall in several regions, marking a definitive shift towards winter weather patterns.
Key Weather Threats: Cold Waves and Dense Fog
According to the IMD bulletin dated December 4, cold wave conditions are set to grip isolated pockets of Punjab, Haryana, and East Rajasthan on December 5. Jharkhand will experience these chilly conditions on December 6 and 7, with minimum temperatures expected to drop sharply. Such cold waves, characterized by a significant dip below normal temperatures, pose risks to public health and can impact standing winter crops like wheat and mustard.
Simultaneously, dense fog is predicted to be a major disruptor, especially in the northeastern parts of the country. From December 5 to 9, isolated areas in Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura are likely to witness foggy mornings. Himachal Pradesh will also face dense fog from December 5 to 7, while parts of Odisha may see it on December 5 and 6. The IMD has advised commuters, particularly motorists, to exercise extreme caution during early morning hours when visibility is expected to drop significantly.
Rainfall and Temperature Trends Across Regions
The southern peninsula will see the tail-end effects of the northeast monsoon. Isolated heavy rainfall is very likely over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal on December 5, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning. Southern Kerala and Tamil Nadu may also receive isolated showers. Light to moderate rainfall is forecast for coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, and the island territories.
Temperature-wise, a noticeable fall in minimums by 2–3 degrees Celsius is expected over central, east, and northeast India on December 5 and 6, driven by colder northwesterly winds. Post December 6, temperatures in these regions are likely to stabilize. Maharashtra will see steady nighttime temperatures until December 9, after which a drop of 2–3°C is anticipated. Gujarat, in contrast, is expected to remain stable with no major temperature variations throughout the week.
Day-by-Day Weather Outlook and Advisory
December 5 emerges as the most active day, featuring heavy rain in the South, cold waves in the North, and widespread fog in the Northeast and Himachal. By December 6 and 7, the focus shifts to persistent fog in the Northeast and continuing cold waves in Jharkhand. The forecast for December 8 indicates fog lingering in the Northeast, with no other major warnings. For December 9 and 10, while no severe weather is predicted, a gradual cooling is expected, particularly in Maharashtra.
The IMD's overall outlook suggests a week shaped by seasonal winter phenomena rather than severe storms. However, the recurring fog and cold wave conditions highlight short-term risks to transportation, agriculture, and daily life. Residents in affected areas are urged to stay updated with the latest IMD bulletins, dress warmly, and plan travel carefully, especially during early mornings when fog is at its peak.
