Bengaluru set for coldest December in 9 years as temperatures dip sharply

City braces for 12°C nights, misty mornings and rising winter illnesses as December turns unusually cold.

Bengaluru is preparing for an unusual winter chill, with temperatures expected to fall much below the city’s normal December range. After hovering around 16°C over the past week, meteorologists now predict that the city could dip to 12°C, a mark unseen since December 2016.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), minimum temperatures over the coming week are likely to remain between 12°C and 14°C, compared to the city’s average December minimum of 16.4°C. On Sunday, Bengaluru recorded 17°C, and officials expect a further, steady drop driven by clear skies, dry air and a stable atmosphere.

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The IMD’s seven-day forecast indicates persistent morning mist across the city. Light fog is expected on December 14, followed by clear, sunny afternoons and significantly colder nights. This shift is also linked to the post-storm effect of Cyclone Ditwah, which reduced rainfall but increased the cold intensity.

Residents have already begun reacting to the chill with familiar remarks, “This feels like Kashmir, not Bengaluru!” As temperatures fall daily, the maximum continues to hover around 27°C, while the minimum remains well below normal.

Spike in winter illnesses

With the cold wave strengthening, hospitals are reporting a rise in cases of cough, cold and fever. Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable.

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Dr. Surendra, advising precaution, has urged families to:

• Drink warm water
• Eat freshly cooked hot meals
• Use proper winter clothing
• Monitor children closely, especially during early mornings and late evenings

He warns that sudden temperature drops can worsen respiratory issues, making preventive care essential.

As Bengaluru prepares for one of its chilliest Decembers in nine years, misty dawns, clearer days and a sharp evening chill are set to define the week ahead. While the cold may be welcome to some, experts stress the importance of caution as the winter deepens.

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