Mangaluru: Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts have witnessed a noticeable drop in minimum temperatures over the past few days, leading to colder conditions across coastal Karnataka. The sudden dip has been particularly felt in rural areas, where chilly weather sets in during the early morning hours and often persists until the afternoon.
Residents in villages and semi-urban pockets have reported increased discomfort due to cold mornings accompanied by mist. The misty conditions not only reduce visibility but also intensify the chill, making daily activities such as early-morning travel, farming, and outdoor work more difficult.
Weather officials and local observers noted that temperature fluctuations have been recorded throughout the past week, and similar conditions are expected to continue for the next few days.
Cold mornings and mist affect rural life
In many rural areas of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi, people stepping out in the early hours are experiencing sharp cold conditions unusual for the otherwise humid coastal climate. The presence of mist during mornings has added to the discomfort, especially for elderly residents, daily wage workers, and students commuting early.
Farmers have also pointed out that the prolonged chill until late morning is affecting routine agricultural activities. However, some residents welcomed the cooler weather as a brief relief from the usual coastal heat.
Temperature fluctuations recorded over the week
Meteorological data shows noticeable fluctuations in minimum temperatures in both districts over the last five days. In Mangaluru, the minimum temperature dropped below 20°C on December 12, indicating a clear shift towards colder nights.
Average minimum temperature in Mangaluru
- December 9: 20.5°C
- December 10: 21.9°C
- December 11: 21.5°C
- December 12: 19.5°C
- December 13: 20.0°C
The sharpest dip was recorded on December 12, when the minimum temperature fell to 19.5°C, one of the lowest readings in recent weeks.
Udupi also records cooler nights
Udupi district has also seen a marginal but consistent decline in minimum temperatures. While the drop has been less steep compared to Mangaluru, the cooler nights and early mornings are being felt across the district.
Average minimum temperature in Udupi
- December 9: 21.6°C
- December 10: 21.6°C
- December 11: 21.4°C
- December 12: 21.6°C
- December 13: 20.8°C
The data indicates that Udupi recorded its lowest minimum temperature of the period on December 13, when the mercury dipped to 20.8°C.
Similar weather likely to continue
Weather observers say the current conditions are a result of seasonal changes combined with shifting wind patterns affecting the coastal belt. The drop in minimum temperatures is not considered extreme but is significant enough to be felt across the region.
Officials indicated that similar weather, including cool mornings and misty conditions, is likely to prevail for the next few days. Residents have been advised to take precautions during early mornings, especially children and senior citizens.
Conclusion
The recent fall in minimum temperatures has brought a brief spell of cold weather to Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts, altering the usual coastal climate pattern. While the chill has caused some inconvenience, especially during misty mornings, weather conditions are expected to remain stable with minor fluctuations in the coming days.