Dahod's Unexpected Winter Chill Stuns Gujarat
Dahod district in Gujarat has delivered a major weather surprise this winter. Long recognized for its dry and extreme climate, Dahod now frequently appears among the coldest places in the state. It often beats or shares the top spot with Naliya in Kutch, challenging traditional perceptions of the region's weather patterns.
Systematic Data Reveals the Cold Trend
This shift did not happen overnight. The installation of a reliable weather observation facility brought Dahod's low temperatures into clear focus. Until 2021, the district lacked proper equipment to record accurate meteorological data.
That year, the Indian Meteorological Department set up an Automatic Weather Station at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Dahod. After initial operational issues, the station has functioned smoothly for approximately one year. A senior IMD official confirmed the system's operation since 2021 but noted that historical climate data remains limited due to the facility's newness.
Record-Breaking Low Temperatures Documented
Recent observations provide concrete evidence of Dahod's cold spell. On November 17, Dahod recorded 10.8°C, matching Naliya's temperature and making it the coldest station in Gujarat that day.
The trend continued on December 15 when Dahod registered 10.9°C, the lowest minimum temperature in the state. Naliya measured 11.4°C on the same day. Earlier, on November 11, Dahod shivered at 12.2°C while Naliya remained two and a half degrees warmer at 14.7°C.
Unusual Wind Patterns Explain the Phenomenon
Weather experts point to atypical wind movements as the primary cause. Meteorologist Mukesh Pathak, CEO of the Gujarat Nature Conservation Society, explained the situation clearly.
"Typically, Western Disturbances from the north-northwest cause sharp temperature drops," Pathak stated. "This time, however, winds from the northeast have led to falling temperatures across Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and even states like Odisha and Assam."
Pathak added that Dahod and nearby areas bordering Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh experienced colder conditions due to these northeasterly winds. Meanwhile, interior regions farther from northern and eastern borders remained relatively warm because of an anti-cyclone system.
Dahod's Weather Extremes Span Seasons
Interestingly, Dahod's weather story extends beyond winter. Last year, the town also ranked among Gujarat's hottest places. On March 9, it recorded the state's highest temperature at 43.2°C, demonstrating its capacity for both extreme heat and cold.
Data Accessibility Challenges
While more Automatic Weather Stations have been installed across India, the IMD has stopped sharing AWS data online. This decision comes even as facilities like the one in Dahod provide valuable local climate information that could benefit farmers, planners, and residents.
The Dahod weather station's consistent operation now offers reliable data for understanding the district's changing climate patterns, marking a significant improvement from previous years when such information was unavailable.
