IMD forecasts more chilly mornings with temperatures hovering near single digits in central India.
Winter has firmly taken hold across Vidarbha, with Nagpur recording a minimum temperature of 8.5 degrees Celsius on Thursday morning. The city woke up to a chill in the air, dense fog in several areas, and a noticeable drop in early morning temperatures — making this one of the coldest mornings of the season so far.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) Nagpur Centre, the drop in temperature is part of a broader cold wave pattern affecting central and eastern parts of Maharashtra. Neighboring districts such as Gondia, Wardha, and Chandrapur also reported cold conditions, with Gondia recording one of the lowest minimum temperatures at 8.0°C, making it among the coldest spots in Vidarbha on Thursday.
Early Morning Chill Grips the Region
Residents across Nagpur noted a dramatic change in the weather, with chilly winds and fog reducing visibility during the early morning hours. Many road commuters faced difficulty due to the fog, while morning walkers and joggers wrapped themselves in warm clothing. Tea stalls, roadside eateries, and local markets in areas like Sitabuldi, Sadar, and Dharampeth saw increased crowds as people gathered for hot beverages to beat the cold.
Locals also reported frost-like dew on rooftops, vehicles, and open fields in the outskirts, indicating how quickly surface temperatures dropped before sunrise. Meteorologists suggest that this dip is caused by the clear sky and dry northerly winds blowing over central India following the retreat of a western disturbance from northern regions.
IMD Forecast: More Chilly Mornings Ahead
The IMD has predicted that the cold weather is likely to continue for the next few days across Nagpur, Bhandara, Gondia, and Wardha districts. Minimum temperatures could hover between 8°C and 10°C, while daytime conditions will remain sunny and pleasant with maximum temperatures around 27°C to 29°C.
An official from the Regional Meteorological Centre, Nagpur said, “Cold and dry winds from the northern parts of India are influencing the weather in Vidarbha. The pattern is expected to sustain for the next three days, resulting in cold mornings and relatively warmer afternoons.”
The cold conditions are typical for mid-December, but meteorologists noted that temperatures this year have dipped slightly earlier than usual. Residents of rural parts, including Katol, Umred, and Kalmeshwar, have also reported colder nights, with some areas recording minimums below 9°C.
Health and Safety Advisory
With the mercury dropping steadily, local health experts and authorities have advised citizens to take precautions, especially during early morning and late-night hours. People with respiratory problems, the elderly, and children are urged to stay indoors during peak cold hours and keep themselves adequately covered.
Doctors recommend maintaining body warmth, consuming hot fluids, and avoiding early morning exposure to fog, which may carry pollutants and worsen breathing difficulties. Agricultural workers and daily wage earners who start work early in the open are also advised to layer up with warm clothes.
Agricultural Impact
The drop in temperature, while adding discomfort to daily life, is also considered beneficial for certain rabi crops like wheat and gram that thrive in cooler climates. Farmers in rural Nagpur and Gondia districts have expressed optimism as the cold spell helps improve soil moisture and supports healthy crop growth.
However, horticultural experts cautioned that prolonged cold waves below 7°C could harm tender vegetable and fruit crops, especially in open farmlands without protective covers. Authorities have urged farmers to monitor weather forecasts closely and take timely measures to prevent frost damage.
Citizens Enjoy Winter Vibes
While mornings remain icy, Nagpur’s streets come alive by late morning as sunlight spreads warmth across the city. Families are making the most of this crisp winter weather, with many heading to popular spots like Futala Lake, Ambazari Garden, and Seminary Hills for morning walks or weekend outings.
Local eateries in central Nagpur report a rise in the demand for winter specialties like hot samosas, tea, and bhajiyas, while shopkeepers are stocking up on woolens, jackets, and mufflers. The seasonal chill has also led to an uptick in sales of room heaters and blankets in the city’s electronics and textile markets.
Comparisons Across Vidarbha
Data from the IMD shows that Gondia remained the coldest spot in Vidarbha at 8.0°C, closely followed by Nagpur at 8.5°C. Bhandara recorded a minimum of 9.0°C, Wardha reported 9.5°C, while Chandrapur and Akola saw slightly milder conditions at around 11°C. The consistent drop in temperature across these districts points to a region-wide cold wave settling over Vidarbha.
Meteorologists predict that cold northeasterly winds are likely to persist until next week, after which temperatures may gradually rise toward the New Year.
Outlook
As winter deepens, Vidarbha continues to experience beautiful yet biting mornings, clear skies, and calm afternoons. With Nagpur and Gondia emerging as the coldest among major cities in the region, the coming days are expected to bring more of the distinctive winter charm that central India is known for.
