An unusually intense cold wave has swept across Karnataka, bringing the minimum temperatures down significantly and marking the season's coldest spell. The chill, which was initially confined to the northern districts, has now extended its grip to parts of South Interior Karnataka, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue an Orange Alert for multiple regions.
Record Dip in Temperature
The plains of Karnataka have witnessed a sharp drop in mercury, with reports indicating that Vijayapura recorded the lowest minimum temperature in the state's plains at approximately 7 C recently. Meanwhile, Bidar has also been one of the coldest locations, with temperatures hovering around 9 C and specific pockets of the district dipping as low as 5 C to 7 C. This marked deviation from normal has ushered in severe cold wave conditions.
Orange Alert Declared
In response to the plummeting temperatures and the severity of the cold, the IMD has sounded an Orange Alert, urging residents to take necessary precautions. This alert signifies a high level of preparedness is required against the severe weather.
Districts in North Interior Karnataka that have been placed under the Orange Alert include:
- Bidar
- Kalaburagi (Gulbarga)
- Vijayapura
- Raichur
- Yadgir
In an unusual extension of the cold wave, several districts in South Interior Karnataka and the Malnad region are also experiencing severe chill and have been put under an alert (Yellow/Orange depending on the source and specific date/time of the warning), including:
- Haveri
- Koppal
- Ballari
- Vijayanagara
- Hassan
- Chikkamagaluru
- Shivamogga
- Bengaluru Rural
- Chikkaballapura
Public Advisory Issued
The severe cold has disrupted daily life, especially in the mornings and late evenings, with outdoor activities grinding to a halt. Authorities have advised the public, especially the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions, to take extreme caution:
- Stay Indoors: Minimise exposure to the cold, especially during the early morning and late night hours.
- Layered Clothing: Wear multiple layers of warm clothing to trap body heat effectively.
- Hydration and Diet: Consume warm liquids and nutritious food to maintain body temperature and immunity.
The cold wave conditions are forecast to persist for the next few days, with temperatures remaining appreciably below normal across the affected regions. The situation is being continuously monitored by the meteorological department.
