Cold Wave Grips Maharashtra, Yavatmal Records 9.6°C, Dapoli Shivers at 8°C
A fresh cold wave has gripped several parts of Maharashtra, with temperatures dropping sharply over the last few days. As winter sets in, many districts are reporting unusually low minimum temperatures, forcing people to bring out their sweaters, blankets and warm clothing earlier than usual this season.
According to local weather observations, Yavatmal in the Vidarbha region recorded a minimum temperature of around 9.6∘C9.6∘C, while Dapoli in Ratnagiri district saw the mercury drop even further to about 8∘C8∘C. These figures indicate that cold conditions are intensifying in both interior and coastal parts of the state.
Yavatmal Shivers Under Single-Digit Temperature
The Vidarbha belt is known for its hot and dry climate for most of the year, but the current cold spell has changed the weather pattern significantly. In Yavatmal, the minimum temperature dipping to 9.6∘C9.6∘C has surprised many residents, as such low readings are usually seen only during the peak winter weeks of December and January.
Local people reported that the chill in the early morning hours has increased noticeably. Many families are lighting small fires, using room heaters where available, and preferring to stay indoors during late night and early morning. The cold is being felt the most by senior citizens, children and those who leave for work in the early hours.
Farmers in and around Yavatmal have also started keeping a close watch on their crops. While a mild winter can sometimes be beneficial, a sudden and intense cold wave may affect sensitive crops, vegetables and flowers. Agricultural experts usually advise farmers to monitor weather forecasts and take protective steps, such as light irrigation or covering delicate crops, whenever there is a sharp dip in temperature.
Dapoli in Ratnagiri Sees Temperature Drop to 8°C
Interestingly, the coastal Konkan region is also witnessing a strong nip in the air. Dapoli in Ratnagiri district has recorded a minimum temperature of around 8∘C8∘C, which is quite low for a coastal area that usually enjoys relatively moderate winters due to the influence of the sea.
Residents of Dapoli said that mornings and late evenings have become significantly colder in the last few days. Tourists visiting the region are also experiencing this unexpected chill and are now seen wrapped in sweaters and shawls while enjoying the scenic beaches and hill points.
The fall in temperature is also changing local routines. Tea stalls and food vendors report increased demand for hot tea, coffee and snacks throughout the day. Markets and public places remain less crowded during the early morning as people wait for the sun to rise and the weather to turn slightly warmer.
Possible Reasons Behind the Cold Wave
Meteorologists often link such cold waves in Maharashtra to the movement of cold, dry winds from the northern parts of India, especially after western disturbances pass over the Himalayas. When these cold winds travel towards central and western India, they cause the night temperature to drop sharply.
Clear skies during the night can also contribute to lower minimum temperatures. With less cloud cover, the land loses heat more quickly, leading to a more intense chill by early morning. Both Vidarbha and Konkan appear to be under the influence of these conditions at present.
Weather experts usually monitor such patterns closely to understand how long the cold wave might last and whether the temperatures are likely to fall further in the coming days.
Impact on Daily Life and Administration
The ongoing cold wave is having a direct impact on people’s daily lives. In many towns and villages across these regions:
- School-going children are being sent with extra layers of clothing.
- Offices and shops are opening a little later than usual in some areas.
- Morning walkers and joggers are reducing their outdoor activity time.
Health professionals often caution that such sudden temperature drops can increase the risk of seasonal illnesses like cold, cough, fever and respiratory problems, especially among vulnerable groups. People are usually advised to stay warm, drink hot fluids and avoid sudden exposure to cold air.
Local administrations in both Yavatmal and Ratnagiri districts may also issue public advisories if the cold wave persists, asking citizens to take basic precautions. In some places, arrangements like night shelters and distribution of warm clothes to the needy are made during prolonged cold spells.
Citizens Advised to Take Precautions
With winter intensifying across Maharashtra, citizens in Yavatmal, Dapoli and nearby regions are being urged to take simple but important precautions:
- Wear layered clothing, especially during mornings and nights.
- Keep infants, children and elderly people protected from direct cold winds.
- Use blankets and warm bedding during sleep.
- Avoid stepping out late at night or very early in the morning unless necessary.
- Keep track of local weather updates and forecasts.
By following these basic measures, people can protect themselves and their families from the harsh effects of the cold wave.
Cold Wave Likely to Continue
As of now, there are indications that the cold conditions may continue for a few more days. If the northern winds remain active and skies stay clear, further dips in night temperature cannot be ruled out in parts of Vidarbha, Marathwada and Konkan.
For Maharashtra, this phase also marks the formal arrival of winter, and such weather patterns may repeat in December and January. Citizens, farmers, students and workers are therefore keeping a close watch on the daily temperature trends.
The sharp fall to 9.6∘C9.6∘C in Yavatmal and 8∘C8∘C in Dapoli has made it clear that winter has truly arrived in the state. As Maharashtra shivers under this cold wave, “Happen Recently” will continue to track the changing weather and its impact on people’s lives across regions.

