Gujarat is witnessing a temporary dip in winter intensity as a shift in wind direction has caused temperatures to remain relatively moderate in the last few days. Weather experts, however, warn that this relief will be short-lived. A fresh wave of severe cold is expected to sweep the state in December, leading to a sharp drop of 2 to 3 degrees Celsius. The upcoming cold spell is likely to be influenced by the extreme winter gripping northern parts of India, which traditionally impacts Gujarat after a short lag.
According to the data released by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Naliya in Kutch has emerged as the coldest location in the state, recording a minimum temperature of 11.6°C. The fall in temperature during early mornings and late nights suggests that the winter season is slowly strengthening even though daytime hours continue to remain warm. Meteorologists believe that the current fluctuation in temperature is an indication of the transition phase before the full-fledged winter sets in.
Weather officials explained that Gujarat is currently experiencing easterly winds, which have increased the moisture content in the atmosphere. This rise in humidity has temporarily moderated the chilling effect that is usually felt during November. Typically, by this time of the year, many parts of the state experience sharp temperature drops, leading to crisp and chilly mornings. However, due to the ongoing wind patterns, the cold has not intensified to the expected level. Cities like Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Rajkot and Vadodara have been witnessing cooler nights, but not the biting cold normally associated with mid-November.
The IMD predicts that if the wind direction stabilizes and the moisture level decreases, the state is likely to experience a rapid fall in minimum temperatures. Weather patterns in northern India are also an important factor in shaping Gujarat’s winter. Currently, states such as Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab and Haryana are reeling under intense cold conditions. Snowfall in the Himalayan regions and cold winds blowing southward are expected to gradually push temperatures down in the western part of the country, including Gujarat.
Meteorologists further emphasize that December is likely to be significantly colder compared to the current phase. They anticipate back-to-back western disturbances in northern India that will trigger strong northwesterly winds penetrating into Gujarat. These winds usually bring dry and icy cold air, leading to considerable temperature drops. Based on past data, early December has often marked the beginning of a sharp decline in temperatures, especially in regions like Kutch, Banaskantha, Sabarkantha and parts of Saurashtra.
Currently, several areas in Gujarat are experiencing varied climatic conditions. While early mornings feel crisp, afternoons resemble mild summer due to the warm sunlight. This climatic contrast is common during the transition period. Farmers, especially those engaged in winter crops, are keeping a close eye on weather updates, as sudden drops in temperature can affect crop growth and yield. Horticulture experts advise growers to prepare for upcoming cold waves and protect sensitive crops.
As the month progresses, citizens are also likely to experience more foggy mornings and cooler nights. The IMD has recommended that people, particularly the elderly and children, take necessary precautions once the temperature begins to fall sharply in December.
In summary, despite the current moderation in temperatures caused by changing wind directions, Gujarat is heading toward a significantly colder phase. With Naliya already recording 11.6°C and northern India experiencing severe winter conditions, the state should prepare for a strong cold wave in December as minimum temperatures are predicted to dip further by 2–3 degrees Celsius.
