Residents of Indore found themselves in a meteorological tug-of-war on Tuesday, grappling with starkly contrasting weather conditions within a single day. The city experienced warm, comfortable sunshine during daylight hours, only to be plunged into a biting cold soon after sunset. This sharp swing in temperatures left the populace scrambling to adapt their daily routines, clothing choices, and travel plans.
Temperature Data Highlights the Contrast
The official readings clearly illustrated the extreme fluctuation. The maximum temperature for Tuesday settled at 27.2 degrees Celsius, which was noted to be one degree above the normal seasonal average. While this was slightly lower than Monday's high of 28 degrees, the daytime warmth was palpable. However, the relief was short-lived. The night temperature dipped to a chilly 6.6 degrees Celsius, marking a significant four degrees below the normal minimum.
Residents Face Misleading Warmth and Health Concerns
Clear skies and bright afternoon sunshine created a deceptive spell of warmth across Indore. Many office-goers and students ventured out without heavy winter clothing, only to be caught off guard by the sudden evening chill. "The noon feels pleasant, but the cold returns with a vengeance after sunset. It makes planning the day very difficult," shared Shailendra Tiwari, a resident of Vijay Nagar.
The frequent and abrupt shifts are more than just an inconvenience. Parents and elderly citizens reported an increased risk of health issues like cough, cold, and general fatigue due to the unpredictable conditions. Weather officials explained that the discomfort was further intensified by cold winds blowing during the night and early morning. Winds originating from the east to north-east direction were recorded at speeds of 10 to 12 kilometres per hour, significantly adding to the chill factor.
Official Forecast and Advisory
The India Meteorological Department has provided some hope for consistency. They forecast a slight rise in both day and night temperatures starting from Wednesday onwards. Despite this predicted moderation, officials have advised residents to remain cautious, especially during the evening and early morning hours when the cold is most severe. The key takeaway for Indore's citizens is to be prepared for layered clothing and to guard against the health impacts of such volatile weather patterns.