Residents across Meghalaya are bundling up as a persistent and intense cold spell tightens its grip on the state, sending mercury levels plunging for over a week. The picturesque landscapes of Shillong and other highland areas have transformed, with meadows and hillsides blanketed in thick layers of early morning frost.
Temperature Plunge: A District-by-District Breakdown
According to the latest data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Shillong, Mawkyrwat town in the South West Khasi Hills district recorded the state's lowest minimum temperature at a chilling 0.6 degrees Celsius on Thursday. Other parts of the Khasi Hills region also experienced severe cold. Nongstoin was notably cold at 1.5°C, while the state capital, Shillong, recorded a minimum of 5°C. Barapani (Umiam) was at 5.2°C, and the famous Sohra (Cherrapunji) registered 5.5°C.
In eastern Meghalaya, Jowai saw temperatures drop to 7.4°C, and Mynkre was colder at 3.8°C. The Garo Hills region provided some relative respite, with readings staying in the higher single digits. Tura recorded 11.2°C, Williamnagar was at 9.7°C, Ampati at 9.6°C, and Resubelpara at 10.5°C.
Clear Skies and Radiative Cooling: The Science Behind the Chill
Meteorologists explain that the prevailing harsh conditions are primarily due to clear skies and an intensification of local radiative cooling during the night. This process allows heat to escape rapidly into the atmosphere, causing a sharp drop in ground-level temperatures. The IMD forecast suggests that while daytime hours may be sunny, the nights will continue to bring more shivers to the region.
Advisories Issued: From Farms to Highways
The continuing drop in temperature has prompted official warnings and health concerns. The IMD has specifically advised motorists to exercise extreme caution during early morning hours due to the risk of foggy conditions reducing visibility on roads.
Farmers have been urged to take preventive measures, as the formation of ground frost poses a significant threat to winter crops and vegetation, potentially damaging livelihoods. Simultaneously, health practitioners in and around Shillong are cautioning citizens, especially the elderly and children, about the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to such cold conditions, advising appropriate warmth and care.
