Shillong: Shillong is in the grip of an intense cold spell, with temperatures dipping sharply and winter conditions tightening across the city.
On Tuesday, the minimum temperature fell to 5.5 degrees Celsius, marking one of the coldest days of the season so far and triggering a sudden chill in daily life.
Residents woke up to dense fog, accompanied by occasional drizzle, which added to the biting cold.
The drop in temperature pushed many to rely on heaters, layered clothing and traditional fireplaces to cope with the weather.
Visibility was affected in several areas, particularly during the early morning and evening hours.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that foggy conditions are likely to persist in parts of Meghalaya for the next five days.
Shallow to moderate fog is expected at isolated locations, with dense fog developing in pockets that could disrupt travel and routine movement, especially during morning hours.
Weather instability is also forecast in the Khasi and Jaintia Hills, where thunderstorms and the possibility of hail are expected on January 3 and 4.
East Khasi Hills is likely to be the most vulnerable to such weather activity during this period, the IMD said.
While the broader outlook points to largely dry conditions, temperatures are expected to continue their downward trend.
Minimum temperatures may fall by another 2–3 degrees Celsius, with isolated areas witnessing a sharper drop of up to 3–4 degrees.
Daytime temperatures could also dip slightly, keeping winter conditions firmly in place.
For Shillong and surrounding areas, mornings are likely to remain foggy or misty before skies clear later in the day.
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Daytime temperatures are expected to hover between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius, while night temperatures may slip into single digits.
The IMD has advised residents and commuters to exercise caution during early hours due to reduced visibility caused by fog.
Despite the current cold spell, the department maintains that overall winter temperatures in Meghalaya are expected to remain above normal.
December has already seen several days of clear skies and sunshine in Shillong.
Winter in Meghalaya typically lasts from December to February and is marked by fluctuating temperatures, frequent fog and occasional rainfall, with brief but sharp cold spells such as the one currently affecting the state.
