Severe cold returns to MP after Mawatha rain and fog:Temperature to drop 2 to 3 degrees from January 25 across state; rain alert for northern regions on 23 Jan

After unseasonal winter rain (Mawatha) and widespread fog, Madhya Pradesh is set to experience a sharp increase in cold conditions. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Meteorological Centre Bhopal, moderate fog was recorded in five districts, including Gwalior and Datia, on Thursday. Northern parts of the state are also likely to receive rainfall on Friday. From January 25 onwards, minimum temperatures are expected to drop by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius. Active weather systems affecting North India At present, two cyclonic circulations are active over West-North India and Uttar Pradesh. Additionally, a Western Disturbance is influencing weather patterns across several states. These systems are gradually moving eastwards, leading to noticeable weather changes in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Their impact will begin to be felt in Madhya Pradesh from January 24. On January 24, cloudy skies are expected across many areas, with the possibility of light rain. A day earlier, on January 23, rainfall is likely in seven districts: Gwalior, Morena, Bhind, Datia, Niwari, Tikamgarh, and Chhatarpur. Temperature to fall as systems move forward The Meteorological Department has stated that as these weather systems move away, cold northerly winds will dominate. This will lead to a significant fall in minimum temperatures across the state. The mercury is expected to drop by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius in the coming days, intensifying winter conditions. Fog conditions in northern Madhya Pradesh Fog is currently affecting the northern region of the state. On Thursday morning, moderate fog was observed in Gwalior, Datia, Niwari, Tikamgarh, and Chhatarpur. Light fog was also reported in several other districts, including Bhopal, Indore, and Ujjain, reducing visibility during early morning hours. Mandsaur coldest, chill felt across several districts Cold conditions continue to prevail across Madhya Pradesh. Mandsaur recorded the lowest temperature on Tuesday-Wednesday night at 5.1 degrees Celsius. Rajgarh followed with 6.2 degrees, while Naogaon recorded 7 degrees. Shajapur registered 7.1 degrees, Karondi in Katni 7.6 degrees, Datia 7.9 degrees, and Khajuraho 8 degrees. Rewa recorded 8.2 degrees, Shivpuri 9 degrees, and Pachmarhi 9.2 degrees Celsius. Among the five major cities, Gwalior was the coldest at 9 degrees. Bhopal recorded 10.8 degrees, Indore 12.2 degrees, Ujjain 12 degrees, and Jabalpur 12.5 degrees Celsius. What is a western disturbance? According to the Meteorological Department, a Western Disturbance is a weather system comprising winds and clouds originating from the west. When active, it causes snowfall in hilly regions and rainfall in plains. After it passes, cold northerly winds prevail, leading to colder days and nights. Why January is critical for cold weather ? The Meteorological Department explains that just as July and August are crucial for monsoon rainfall, December and January are the most significant months for severe cold. During this period, cold winds from northern India frequently reach Madhya Pradesh, causing a marked drop in temperatures. Data from the past decade confirms this trend, with winter rain (Mawatha) commonly occurring in January due to active Western Disturbances.