Pleasant to 8.5 degrees Celsius: Bengaluru’s December cold has tightened its grip. Bengaluru-News News

Winter in Bengaluru usually sees mild mornings and pleasant afternoons, but this festival season has brought unusually intense cold. Over the past few days, a combination of cold wave conditions and dense fog has tightened its grip over the Bengaluru urban district, affecting daily routines and disrupting morning commutes in the city and surrounding areas.

Temperature drops in Bengaluru urban area

The minimum temperature in parts of Bengaluru urban district dropped to around 8.5 degrees Celsius, the coldest the city has experienced this December. While minimum temperatures are not uncommon in winter, the intensity of the current cold wave has increased, with residents reporting cold nights and quite cold mornings.

Meteorological observations indicate that temperatures in many parts of Karnataka remain below normal for this time of the year. In Bengaluru, wind conditions also remained calm with the fall, causing cold air to move closer to the ground and increasing cold during nights and mornings.

The fog has tightened its grip in the morning

Along with the cold, dense fog has become a regular feature in the morning, especially before sunrise. Visibility on many roads and highways in the city has been significantly reduced, affecting motorists, cyclists and pedestrians alike. Fog has been particularly prominent on the outskirts of the city and on major connecting roads, where open land allows the fog to spread more easily.

For commuters, this means slower travel speeds and longer travel times. Drivers have been urged to use fog lights, maintain safe distance and avoid sudden lane changes. Many motorists reported almost standstill conditions on some stretches during the dense fog.

Impact on daily commute and public transport

The weather conditions have also affected public transport. Early morning bus services faced delays as drivers faced low visibility conditions. Passengers waiting at bus stops said they had to wait for long periods of time, especially in areas with dense fog.

Although no major cancellations were reported, travel disruptions were more noticeable for those heading out before daybreak. Office goers working morning shifts, traveling at the airport and inter-district commuters were the most affected by the combination of fog and cold.

There is pressure to travel during the festive season

The timing of the cold wave coincides with the festive travel season, adding an additional layer of difficulty for people planning holiday trips. Many families traveling early in the morning to catch buses, trains or flights faced delays due to low visibility.

Road trips in particular require careful planning, as fog makes long-distance driving more tiring and time-consuming. Authorities have advised travelers to start traveling late in the morning when possible, as the fog usually clears after sunrise.

Health Concerns in Cold Weather

The sudden drop in temperature has also raised health concerns, especially for children, senior citizens and people with respiratory problems. Doctors say cold weather combined with fog can increase respiratory problems, cause allergies and increase the risk of seasonal infections.

Residents have been advised to stay warm, avoid prolonged exposure to early morning cold and ensure adequate hydration and nutrition. It is advised to wear layered clothing and cover the head and neck in the morning.

What does the weather forecast say?

Weather officials have indicated that dry conditions are likely to continue with clear skies in the coming days. However, cool nights and hazy or foggy mornings are expected to continue for the near term. Day temperatures are likely to remain comfortable, creating a sharp contrast between day and night conditions.

Such patterns are common during winter when humidity levels remain low and wind speeds are minimal, leading to fog during night and morning hours.

planning around winter conditions

For residents of Bengaluru, the current weather pattern is a reminder that winter conditions, however brief, can have a tangible impact on daily life. Adjusting travel schedules, checking visibility before heading out, and staying alert on the roads can help minimize discomfort and risk.

As the festive season continues, travelers and travelers are being encouraged to stay informed about weather updates and make travel plans accordingly. With cool mornings and fog likely to persist, a little extra preparation can go a long way in dealing with the Bengaluru winter chill.