According to the IMD, Shahdol’s Kalyanpur recorded the lowest minimum temperature at 4.8°C, followed closely by Karaundi in Katni at 4.9°C. Rewa registered 5.8°C, while Khajuraho, Umaria and Datia reported minimum temperatures ranging between 6 and 7 degrees. Among major cities, Gwalior was the coldest at 7.1°C, followed by Bhopal at 9.8°C, Indore at 10.2°C, Jabalpur at 10°C and Ujjain at 11.2°C.
Meteorological officials said a strong Western Disturbance is becoming active over the Himalayan region from January 16. Its impact is expected to be felt in Madhya Pradesh after three to four days, increasing the likelihood of cloud cover and light to moderate rainfall, locally referred to as Mawatha. Although a trough is currently passing near the western region, its effect has remained limited so far.
Cold conditions have been further aggravated by high-speed jet stream winds blowing at nearly 204 kmph at an altitude of around 12.6 kilometres over east and north India. These winds have contributed to a significant chill during both day and night, despite bright sunshine offering brief daytime relief in some areas.
Dense to moderate fog continues to affect northern districts, including Gwalior, Chambal, Sagar and Rewa divisions. Reduced visibility has disrupted rail traffic, with several long-distance trains arriving late from Delhi, including Malwa Express, Punjab Mail and Sachkhand Express.
Despite the severe cold, the IMD has clarified that no cold wave or cold day alert has been issued for Thursday. However, experts note that this winter has already broken multiple records. November witnessed the coldest conditions in 84 years, December saw a 25-year low, and January has continued the trend, surpassing a decade-old cold record in Bhopal.
Historically, December and January are the coldest months for the state, driven by persistent northerly winds and periodic Western Disturbances. With another system approaching, residents are advised to brace for continued cold and possible rainfall in the days ahead.
