Residents of the 'Silicon Valley of India' woke up to an unusual and intense chill this Sunday morning, as the influence of Cyclonic Storm Ditwah, which is currently nearing the Tamil Nadu coast, brings a significant drop in temperature and increased precipitation to Bengaluru.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicates that the city is set to experience a three-day period of intensified cold and wet weather, starting today, November 30.
Temperature Plunge and Weather Forecast
The current cold conditions are directly linked to the deep depression over the Southwest Bay of Bengal (Cyclone Ditwah), which is channeling moist, cool winds towards South Interior Karnataka.
- Coldest Day of the Season: On Saturday, the maximum temperature recorded in Bengaluru was 21.6°C, which the IMD confirmed as the coldest day recorded so far this year. This reading is nearly 6°C below the normal maximum temperature for this time of year.
- Forecast for the Next Three Days (Nov 30 - Dec 2):
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- Sunday (Today): The city is expected to remain generally cloudy with a high chance of rain (up to 75% chance). Temperatures will be low, with a maximum of around 21°C and a minimum around 19°C.
- Monday: Light rain and cloudy skies are forecast. The maximum temperature may rise slightly to 23°C, but the minimum will remain cold at 19°C.
- Tuesday: The weather is expected to remain cloudy, but the chance of rain will decrease. Temperatures will be slightly warmer, with a high of 24°C and a low of 20°C.
Cyclone Effect and Rainfall
Though Bengaluru is not directly in the path of Cyclone Ditwah, the weather system is ensuring a prolonged period of moisture and cloud cover, which is preventing daytime temperatures from rising and keeping the nights exceptionally chilly.
IMD officials attribute the lower-than-normal mercury levels to the combination of the cyclonic influence and the rainfall the city has already received over the past few days.
Public Advisory
The sharp drop in temperature and the accompanying wet conditions warrant extra caution from residents:
- Warm Clothing: Citizens are advised to wear layered, warm clothing, especially during morning and evening hours.
- Commuters: Keep umbrellas and rain gear handy, as rain showers are highly likely on Sunday and Monday.
- Health: Individuals, especially the elderly and children, are advised to take necessary precautions to avoid seasonal illnesses associated with the cold and wet weather.
The true winter chill is now expected to set in earnestly in the first week of December, following the passing of the cyclonic influence.
