The residents of North Karnataka are facing a severe winter chill as icy winds sweep across the region, triggering cold wave conditions. The drop in temperatures has been particularly sharp, compelling people to limit outdoor activities and take widespread precautions.
The district of Bidar in the Kalyana Karnataka region has emerged as the coldest spot in the state, consistently recording the lowest minimum temperatures. According to data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC), Bidar recently registered a low of 7.4 C and 9.0 C, marking a significant deviation of 4 C to 6 C below normal seasonal averages.
Cold Wave Alert Issued
The cold spell is attributed to the strengthening of dry, cold northeasterly winds flowing from northern and central India, coupled with clear skies that facilitate radiational cooling during the night. The IMD has issued a cold wave to severe cold wave warning for several districts across North Interior Karnataka, including:
- Bidar
- Kalaburagi (Gulbarga)
- Vijayapura (Bijapur)
- Belagavi (Belgaum)
- Raichur
These regions are experiencing minimum temperatures substantially below the usual December levels. Even parts of South Interior Karnataka, including Hassan and Kolar, are feeling the drop in temperatures.
Health and Agricultural Impact
The sudden and intense cold is causing considerable discomfort and posing health risks. Local authorities have advised residents, particularly the elderly, children, and those with respiratory issues, to stay indoors as much as possible, wear multiple layers of warm clothing, and regularly consume hot beverages.
Farmers have also been advised to take immediate measures to protect their crops from the chill, which can stunt plant growth and cause 'flower drop'. Across villages in the Kalyana Karnataka belt, residents are being forced to light bonfires to seek warmth during the early mornings and late nights.
With the cold wave predicted to persist over the next few days, the region is bracing for what is turning out to be one of the harshest winter phases in recent years.
