The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a forecast indicating a significant shift in weather patterns for Uttar Pradesh, with the Kanpur division set to experience notable changes. The prediction centers on an increase in north-westerly wind speeds, which is expected to cause greater fluctuations in both day and night temperatures across the region.
Weather Details and Scientific Data
According to the forecast, the wind velocity, which was measured at 2.8 kilometres per hour on Tuesday, is set to rise. This increase is the primary driver behind the predicted temperature instability. The department has specifically warned that higher wind speeds could accelerate melting processes during various periods, including night, morning, evening, and daytime hours.
Adding to the weather concerns, pollution and fog conditions are likely to persist due to high humidity levels, with a possibility of dense fog formation. This warning comes after Kanpur experienced dense fog on Tuesday morning, which severely reduced visibility until around 11 am. Following the fog's dissipation, the skies cleared, but the sun provided only weak warmth.
Providing specific data, weather scientist Sunil Pandey from CSA University reported that the city recorded a minimum temperature of 7.7 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 16.3 degrees Celsius, both figures registering below the normal range for this time of year. The humidity levels were exceptionally high, with maximum relative humidity reaching 97 per cent and the minimum at 82 per cent. Pandey also highlighted that the intervening night of Monday and Tuesday was the fourth-coldest night recorded in the state recently.
Administrative Response and Shelter Inspection
Amidst the challenging weather conditions, local administration took steps to assess facilities for the vulnerable. Mayor Pramila Pandey conducted visits to several night shelter houses operated by the Kanpur Municipal Corporation. Her inspection tour included shelters located at Darshan Purwa, Upper India Sugar Exchange Maternity Hospital, and LLR Hospital.
During her visit, the mayor thoroughly inspected the facilities provided at these shelters. She expressed satisfaction with the arrangements overall and took time to interact with the residents. The individuals staying at the shelters reportedly voiced their approval of the facilities. However, the inspection at the Darshan Purwa shelter revealed an issue, as the caretaker was absent from duty. Mayor Pandey has sought a formal explanation from the absent caretaker regarding this lapse.
Implications for Residents
The combined forecast of rising winds, temperature dips, and persistent fog has several implications for Kanpur's residents. The fluctuating temperatures necessitate appropriate layering of clothing to avoid health issues. The continued threat of dense fog, especially during morning and evening hours, demands extra caution from commuters and drivers, as visibility can drop suddenly and significantly.
The high humidity levels, coupled with pollutants, may also exacerbate respiratory problems for susceptible individuals. Authorities advise people to limit prolonged outdoor exposure during early mornings and late evenings when fog and pollution are at their peak. The proactive inspection of night shelters underscores the administration's focus on ensuring warm and safe spaces for the homeless population during this cold and unpredictable weather spell.
