Meghalaya is experiencing an intense winter spell, with Mawkyrwat recording the state’s lowest temperature at 0.6°C on January 8.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cold wave has gripped the state, with widespread cold conditions across the hills.
Shillong, the state capital, recorded a minimum of 5°C, while Umiam dipped to 5.2°C. Other cold pockets included Nongstoin (1.5°C) and Mynkre (3.8°C). In contrast, western districts were relatively warmer, with Tura at 11.2°C and Williamnagar at 9.7°C.
The IMD attributes the cold weather to clear skies and local radiative cooling intensification at night. Dense fog and ground frost are expected in isolated areas, prompting advisories for motorists and farmers to take precautions.
This winter has revived memories of Meghalaya’s coldest days, with the state’s lowest temperature record standing at -3.4°C (Umiam, January 14, 1989). Shillong’s all-time lowest minimum was -3.3°C (December 30, 1963).
