Madhya Pradesh is witnessing one of the harshest cold waves of the season, as biting winter chill sweeps across major parts of the state. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), temperatures have dropped significantly in several districts, with mercury levels plunging as low as 6 degrees Celsius in cities like Rajgarh, Bhopal and Indore. The weather department has also issued a cold wave alert for the next three days, urging people to take necessary precautions.
Sharp Temperature Drop Across the State
Over the past few days, the weather in Madhya Pradesh has changed drastically. Cold winds from the northern plains are blowing into central India, causing a rapid fall in night temperatures. In Bhopal, the minimum temperature hovered around 6.2°C, while Indore recorded close to 6.5°C. Similarly, Rajgarh and nearby districts reported temperatures between 5.8°C and 6°C, marking one of the coldest spells of this winter season.
Weather experts believe the current cold conditions are likely to persist for the next 72 hours. They attribute the dip in temperature to the combined effect of clear skies, dry winds and high pressure in the upper atmosphere, which enhances radiational cooling during the night.
IMD Issues Cold Wave Alert
The India Meteorological Department has issued a cold wave alert across various districts of Madhya Pradesh, including Bhopal, Indore, Chhindwara, Rajgarh, Vidisha, Gwalior, and Sagar. The alert will remain in effect for at least the next three days. The department has advised residents to stay indoors during early morning and late-night hours, wear warm clothing, and refrain from unnecessary travel to avoid exposure to cold wind.
Officials from the Regional Weather Office in Bhopal stated that if temperatures continue to drop, frost conditions might develop in parts of northern and western Madhya Pradesh. District administrations are coordinating with local authorities to ensure public safety, especially for vulnerable groups like children and the elderly.
Schools Adjust Timings Amid Cold Conditions
As the state continues to experience freezing mornings, several districts, including Chhindwara and adjoining regions, have decided to modify school timings. Morning sessions are now starting later than usual to protect children from cold exposure during early hours. Many schools have been instructed to begin classes after 9 AM instead of the usual 7:30 or 8 AM schedule.
District education officers have been directed to monitor the situation and make additional changes if the cold wave intensifies further. Parents have also welcomed the move, saying it will help children avoid health complications such as colds, coughs, and fever during the harsh weather.
Daily Life Affected Across Cities
The cold wave has gradually started impacting daily life in both urban and rural parts of Madhya Pradesh. Morning markets and roadside vendors are opening late as fewer people step out early. Street traffic in cities like Bhopal and Indore remains thin before sunrise, while tea stalls and warm food vendors are seeing a rise in customers throughout the day.
In rural areas, farmers are facing challenges due to frost formation and dry winds affecting crops. Agricultural officers have advised farmers to cover delicate crops like vegetables and nurture seedlings through irrigation to reduce frost damage.
Public parks, which usually bustle with morning walkers and joggers, remain nearly empty during early hours as the icy winds make outdoor activities uncomfortable. Warm clothing shops and local wool markets, on the other hand, are witnessing increased sales as residents stock up on sweaters, jackets and blankets.
Government and Health Advisories Issued
The Madhya Pradesh government has directed health departments at the district level to remain on alert and ensure that hospitals are ready to deal with cold-related illnesses. Officials have urged citizens, especially senior citizens and children, to avoid early morning and late evening outings.
Health experts recommend layering clothing instead of wearing single heavy garments to stay warm effectively. They also advise staying hydrated, eating hot meals, and maintaining room temperature indoors through safe heating methods during night hours.
Social welfare departments have started distributing blankets and warm clothing among homeless individuals and people living in slum areas of major cities. Local NGOs and volunteer groups have also joined hands to run night shelters, offering temporary refuge to those without adequate housing.
Forecast for Coming Days
Meteorologists predict that the cold wave will continue in most parts of Madhya Pradesh for at least the next three days, after which a slight rise in temperature might be observed. However, night temperatures are expected to stay below normal for the next week.
Light to moderate fog is also likely in the early hours in districts like Jabalpur, Seoni, and Raisen, which can reduce visibility for motorists. The IMD has issued advisories for drivers to be cautious while traveling during foggy mornings to prevent road mishaps.
Citizens Brace for Chilly Days Ahead
With the cold wave showing no signs of retreat, people across Madhya Pradesh are preparing for an extended winter spell. The biting cold has made warm beverages and woolen clothes the talk of the town. The early onset of winter this year has also prompted many families to make last-minute arrangements for room heating and insulation.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, issuing timely bulletins to guide citizens and administrators. Meanwhile, the people of Madhya Pradesh brace themselves for a few more nights of shivering cold and fog-laden mornings as winter tightens its grip over the heart of India.
