Residents of Ahmedabad experienced a noticeable nip in the air on Tuesday morning as the city's minimum temperature settled at 16.5 degrees Celsius. This reading, while marking a dip from the warmer 18-19 degrees Celsius observed through much of the previous week, still remained slightly above the normal average for this time of year.
IMD's Forecast for Ahmedabad and Gujarat
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated that the cooling trend is set to continue gradually. According to their forecast, the minimum temperature in Ahmedabad on Wednesday is expected to be around 16 degrees Celsius. Looking at the broader picture, the IMD predicts no major change in minimum temperatures across the entire state of Gujarat over the coming seven days.
On Tuesday, while the night was cooler, the daytime in Ahmedabad remained pleasant with the maximum temperature recorded at 30 degrees Celsius, which is nearly a degree below the normal expected maximum.
Statewide Chill: Gujarat's Cold Spots
The chill was more pronounced in other parts of Gujarat. Naliya emerged as the coldest place in the state, with the mercury dropping to 10 degrees Celsius. It was followed by Mahuva at 15.3°C, Amreli at 15.4°C, and the state capital Gandhinagar at 15.5°C. Both Keshod and Rajkot recorded identical minimums of 15.8 degrees Celsius.
Long-Range Winter Outlook for the Region
In its long-range forecast for December, issued on Monday, the IMD has suggested that below-normal minimum temperatures are likely across most of Gujarat. The exceptions are expected to be some parts of north Gujarat and the Kutch region. For maximum temperatures, the scenario is different, with most areas likely to see above-normal to normal daytime readings, except in south Gujarat.
For the full winter season stretching until February, the forecast points to mixed conditions. Some districts in Gujarat may experience below-normal minimum temperatures, while others could remain warmer than usual. In a significant projection, the IMD has also indicated that Gujarat may witness fewer coldwave days this winter compared to typical years.
