Karnataka is bracing for a significant drop in mercury this week, with the chill intensifying across the state, particularly in the northern and interior regions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed the onset of cold wave conditions in several districts, predicting unusually low minimum temperatures.
When Will the Coldest Day Hit?
Based on the IMD and state disaster monitoring forecasts, the most intense cold spell is expected to peak around the weekend and early next week, specifically Friday, December 12, through Monday, December 15, 2025.
- Peak Cold Spell: The period from Friday to Monday is expected to see the lowest minimum temperatures across North and South Interior Karnataka.
- North Interior Karnataka (NIK): Districts like Bidar, Kalaburagi, Vijayapura, Raichur, and Yadgir are under a Cold Wave warning. Minimum temperatures here are forecast to hover between a frigid 10°C to 12°C, and in some pockets, may even dip below 10°C. The Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre (KSNDMC) predicts minimum temperatures here will be 4°C to 6°C below normal during this time.
- Bengaluru (South Interior): While a cold wave is not officially declared for the city, Bengaluru is set to experience its coldest December in nine years. The minimum temperature is predicted to fluctuate between 12°C and 14°C during the coming week, significantly below the city's December average of 16.4°C. Friday (Dec 12) and Saturday (Dec 13) are likely to be among the chilliest days for the capital.
Reasons for the Intensifying Cold
The sharp drop in temperatures across Karnataka is attributed to a combination of winter phenomena:
- Northwesterly Winds: The inflow of cold, dry air from the high-pressure zones over North and Central India is sweeping down, displacing the warmer air masses.
- Clear Skies & Dry Air: The absence of clouds and moisture facilitates rapid radiational cooling at night, leading to a quick and sharp dip in the minimum temperature.
- Post-Storm Effect: The clear, cold conditions follow the recent passage of a low-pressure system (cyclone), which often precedes a major drop in temperature as the atmosphere stabilizes.
Health and Travel Advisory
Residents, particularly those in North Interior Karnataka, are advised to take necessary precautions:
- Health: Vulnerable groups (children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues) should limit early morning and late-night exposure to the cold. Use multiple layers of warm clothing.
- Agriculture: Farmers are advised to take measures to protect crops from frost, especially in the North Karnataka region where temperatures are expected to fall steeply.
- Travel: Early morning commuters can expect dense fog and mist, which will significantly reduce visibility on highways and major roads, necessitating cautious driving.
