The State Capital, Bengaluru, woke up to another day of overcast skies and persistent, light rain, commonly referred to as a "drizzle" or jit-jit male in the local language. This continuous spell of damp and chilly weather has significantly disrupted the routine of residents, affecting morning commutes and outdoor activities.
The city is currently experiencing the lingering influence of a cyclonic system (Cyclone Ditwah) that recently impacted the coastal regions, pushing moisture deep inland and causing the unusual cold and wet conditions.
Temperatures Dip as Sunlight Remains Elusive
The persistent cloud cover has played a major role in preventing the sun's warmth from reaching the ground, leading to a notable dip in daytime temperatures.
- Current Temperature: The mercury is hovering around 20°C (68°F) this morning.
- Maximum Temperature: The day's high is forecast to reach only about 23°C to 24°C, significantly lower than the typical December average for the city.
- High Humidity: Humidity levels remain very high, exceeding 80% to 90%, which adds a palpable dampness to the air, intensifying the feeling of cold.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) attributes the unusual cold-wave-like feel to this constant blanket of clouds.
Commuters Struggle with Damp Roads
The sporadic, light rainfall, while not leading to major flooding, has created treacherous conditions for commuters:
- Slippery Roads: The wet, slick roads have slowed down traffic, especially during peak morning hours, leading to congestion on major arterial roads like the Outer Ring Road (ORR) and Electronic City elevated expressway.
- Reduced Visibility: Patches of mist and fog, exacerbated by the high humidity, have further reduced visibility, prompting police advisories for drivers to maintain caution and use fog lights.
- Health Advisory: Health officials have cautioned residents to take preventive measures against common winter ailments like cold, cough, and viral fever, which tend to spike during such damp and sudden dips in temperature.
Forecast: Relief is on the Horizon
While the overcast and drizzly spell is expected to continue for the next 24 to 36 hours, weather reports suggest a gradual improvement.
- Short-Term: Light to moderate rain is expected to continue intermittently today (Monday).
- Mid-Week: The weather system is expected to dissipate as it moves north, leading to clearer skies and a rise in temperature from the mid-week onwards. Bengaluru is expected to return to its characteristic mild winter weather with sunny days and cool nights by the weekend.
Residents are advised to keep their umbrellas and rain gear handy for the next couple of days and monitor official weather updates before planning travel.
