Winter

The winter season in India brings something new every year. While the winter of 2023 was marked by intense cold and chilly waves, the winter of 2024 is expected to be relatively mild and different. Recent reports from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) have sparked much discussion on this topic. In this article, we will analyze the winters of 2023 and 2024 in detail and explore how these changes could impact our lives, health, agriculture, and the environment.

Winter of 2023: More Intense Cold:

Compared to the previous year, the winter of 2023 brought unusually harsh cold in several areas. Cities like Delhi weather, Lucknow, and Chandigarh experienced thick fog, bringing life to a standstill. The cold wave in north-western India intensified, and in many regions, the minimum temperature fell below 5°C. In cities like Delhi, the fog and chill had a significant impact on daily life.

Winter in India lasts from November to February. According to IMD data, December and January are typically the coldest months. Cold winds come from the north-west, and the Himalayas block the cold from spreading southwards. In 2023, this pattern was more severe.

Impact of the Cold:

1. Cold Waves: Over 20 cold waves were recorded in northern India in 2023.
2. Heavy Snowfall: The Himalayan regions experienced more than usual snowfall.
3. Fog: Visibility dropped to below 50 meters in states like Delhi and Uttar Pradesh due to dense fog.

Winter of 2024: IMD’s Forecast:

IMD has predicted a mild winter for 2024.

1. Temperature: Maximum and minimum temperatures across the country are likely to remain above normal, especially between December 2023 and February 2024.
2. Cold Waves: The frequency of cold waves is expected to be lower this year, particularly in northern, central, and eastern India.
3. El Niño Effect: IMD has also indicated that the El Niño phenomenon will impact the 2024 winter, leading to higher temperatures. This natural climate event is causing an increase in sea temperatures, which could result in hotter conditions and milder cold in India.

According to IMD, the winter of 2024 may see an increase in both maximum and minimum temperatures, with the temperature in December 2023 expected to be above normal.

Impact of the Cold:

1. Agriculture: Higher temperatures could be harmful to rabi crops, especially wheat, as the lack of cold may affect crop growth.
2. Health: The milder cold may bring health relief to children and the elderly, but a lack of cold could lead to an increase in infections.
3. Climate Change: Rising temperatures could be an indication of climate change, which might make weather patterns more unpredictable in the future.

Conclusion: According to IMD's forecast, the winter of 2024 is expected to be mild, suggesting a shift in temperature patterns across various regions of India. Understanding the effects of climate change calls for appropriate measures in agriculture, health, and the environment to mitigate its impact.