Cold-wave conditions grip Telangana as temperatures dip below 10°C in several districts

Telangana continued to experience cold-wave conditions on November 14, with minimum temperatures falling below 10°C in 10 locations across the State. Data from the Telangana Development Planning Society (TGDPS) recorded significant dips between the morning of November 13 and 14.

Kohir in Sangareddy district registered the lowest temperature at 7.8°C followed by 8.3°C in Lingapur (Kumram Bheem Asifabad), 8.7°C in Mominpet (Vikarabad), 8.8°C in Ibrahimpatnam (Rangareddy), and 9°C in Shivampet (Medak), 9.1°C in Rudrangi (Rajanna Sircilla), 9.3°C in  Bazarhathnoor (Adilabad), 9.4°C in Bibipet (Kamareddy) and Saloora (Nizamabad) and 9.7°C in Akbarpet (Siddipet).

In the remaining 23 districts, minimum temperatures ranged between 10 and 14. Urban areas also experienced a noticeable drop. Medchal in Medchal Malkajgiri recorded a minimum of 11.1°C, followed by Maredpally in Hyderabad with 11.4°C.

Dharma Raju, a scientist at the India Meteorological Department (IMD), said that the chilly conditions are expected to continue for another two days. “Thereafter, we will be seeing a rise in minimum temperatures,” he said. He explained that northerly and north-easterly winds are currently prevailing over the region, causing the sharp dip in night temperatures. Once easterly winds begin to set in, light rainfall is likely over Rayalaseema, coastal Andhra Pradesh and parts of Telangana, which would lead to a rise in night temperatures.

Meanwhile, doctors have urged people to take precautions as the cold wave persists. Dr Rajeev, a Hyderabad-based pulmonologist, said the homeless, elderly, economically disadvantaged, persons with disabilities, pregnant or lactating women, children, outdoor workers, managers of night shelters and farmers are vulnerable during such conditions. He added that cold weather can trigger the worsening of symptoms in individuals with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or other long-standing lung conditions. “Cold and dry air also increases the risk of common respiratory infections, including the common cold, influenza and pneumonia. Deep and slow breathing techniques can help improve lung function and reduce shortness of breath,” he added.