Orange alert: Cold wave likely to grip Telangana; mercury may hit 5 degree C

Hyderabad: India Meteorological Department (IMD), Hyderabad, has issued its first orange alert for the winter season.

A cold wave is anticipated to affect multiple districts in Telangana, with minimum temperatures expected to plunge as low as 5 degrees Celsius until Sunday.

An orange alert is a precautionary measure indicating the likelihood of a severe cold wave. Residents especially in vulnerable districts are to take necessary precautions.

Sharp Temperature Drops in North Telangana

The districts expected to face the sharpest declines in temperature include Adilabad, Kumuram Bheem, Mancherial, and Nirmal. On Wednesday, Adilabad recorded the lowest minimum temperature of 7 degree Celsius, while Nirmal, Medak, and Sangareddy also reported temperatures below 10 degree Celsius.

Explaining the trend, T. Balaji popularly known as Telangana weatherman said, “Clear skies and strong surface-level winds are the primary factors contributing to the steep drop in night temperatures in these regions.”

Winter Chill in Hyderabad

In Hyderabad, misty or hazy mornings are expected to persist until December 15, with partly cloudy skies during the day. The IMD recorded the city’s lowest minimum temperature at 12.7 degree Celsius in Maredpally, while areas like Bahadurpura, Golkonda, Musheerabad, and Mondamarket experienced temperatures below 15 degree Celsius.

“The city is unlikely to experience a severe cold wave, but residents should prepare for chilly mornings and evenings,” said Balaji.

Precautionary Measures for Residents

As Telangana braces for the cold wave, the IMD urges residents to take preventive steps, particularly during the early morning and late evening hours. People are advised to layer up, avoid prolonged exposure to cold, and ensure adequate heating at home to minimize health risks.

The alert is critical for farmers, children, and the elderly, as they are more susceptible to health issues during such conditions.

With temperatures continuing to fall, the IMD recommends staying updated with weather advisories to navigate the intensifying winter safely.