Light showers likely in northern districts of MP, mostly dry winter spell persists
Bhopal, Jan 22
While Madhya Pradesh has enjoyed largely dry weather over the past 24 hours with no significant rainfall reported anywhere in the state, the India Meteorological Department Bhopal centre has forecasted the possibility of isolated light showers in some northern districts in the coming days.
According to weather maps and forecasts valid until January 26, scattered drizzles could occur on January 23 and 24 in pockets of Rewa, Satna, Sidhi, and parts of Gwalior and Chhatarpur divisions.
By January 25 and 26, conditions are expected to turn mostly dry across the state, with only occasional isolated light rain possible in random northern areas.
Central and southern regions, including Indore and Bhopal, are likely to remain completely dry, though residents should stay alert for dense fog that may reduce visibility.
This outlook comes amid stable synoptic conditions, with a western disturbance currently positioned as a trough in middle and upper tropospheric westerlies.
A cyclonic circulation over north Pakistan has merged into this system, while a subtropical westerly jet stream races at up to 204 kilometre per hour over northeast India at 12.6 km altitude.
A fresh western disturbance is expected to influence northwest India from January 26, potentially bringing gradual changes later.
Maximum temperatures showed little variation, remaining above normal by 1.6°C to 2.1°C in Bhopal, Chambal, Rewa, and Sagar divisions, and appreciably higher by 3.1°C in Gwalior division, while other areas stayed normal.
Mandla recorded the highest at 29.0°C, followed by Narmadapuram at 28.4°C, and Khargone, Narsinghpur, and Ujjain at 28°C each.
Cooler highs were seen in Pachmarhi at 22.8°C, Sheopur at 24.6°C, and Karoundi in Katni, Nowgong in Chhatarpur, and Rewa at 24.8°C.
Minimum temperatures dropped appreciably by 3.4°C in Shahdol division but remained steady elsewhere. They were above normal by 2.4°C to 3.0°C in Indore, Ujjain, Chambal, and Jabalpur divisions, and significantly higher by 5°C in Narmadapuram.
The coldest spots included Karoundi in Katni and Kalyanpur in Shahdol at 4.9°C, Nowgong at 6.5°C, Umaria at 6.9°C, Rewa at 7°C, and Khajuraho at 7.4°C.
Warmer minimum temperatures were recorded in Narmadapuram at 16.6°C, Bhairunda in Sehore at 16.5°C, Chhindwara at 15.6°C, and Agar and Seoni at 15.4°C each.
Shallow fog persisted in Gwalior district, and authorities warn of dense fog reducing visibility during late nights and early mornings, potentially disrupting travel.
Commuters are advised to drive slowly, use low-beam headlights, and maintain safe distances.
Farmers are urged to protect crops and livestock from prolonged fog, ensure proper ventilation, provide warm water and energy-rich feed, and complete rabi sowing promptly while monitoring soil moisture and pests.
For Bhopal and nearby areas, mainly clear skies with haze, winds of 16-18 kilometre per hour, and temperatures between 27°C and 12°C are forecast.
Recent observations show a maximum of 26.6°C (1.9°C above normal), minimum of 11.2°C (0.8°C above normal), and 57 per cent humidity with no rain since January 1.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As a farmer in Rewa district, this information is very helpful. We were worried about the dry spell for our wheat crop. Even light showers will help with soil moisture. Will follow the advisory for protecting livestock.
The temperature variation is interesting. Gwalior division 3.1°C above normal while some places are still at 5°C minimum. Shows how diverse MP's climate is. Hope the IMD's prediction for a dry spell in Bhopal holds, my sister's wedding is on the 25th!
The technical details about western disturbances and jet streams are fascinating, but I wish the article had a simpler summary upfront for the general public. The key takeaway is: light rain north, fog warnings, dry elsewhere.
No rain in Bhopal since Jan 1st? That explains the dusty haze. The nights are still quite pleasant though. Hope the fog situation doesn't get as bad as it did last year on the Bhopal-Indore highway.
These above-normal temperatures in winter are a bit concerning, to be honest. Feels less like winter and more like an extended autumn. Wonder if this is part of a larger pattern.
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