Cold Waves over northwest India and neighbourhood

Abstract

Based on 50 years (1915-16 to 1964-65) daily minimum temperature anomalies of meterological stations in Indo-Pakistan sub-continent north of 22 1/20N and west of 82 1/20E a statistical study of duration, intensity and movement of cold waves in this region has been made. Duration of cold wave occasionally exceeds 10 days in Baluchistan, Kashmir and northwest Rajasthan whereas in east Uttar Pradesh, it last only for about 2-4 days. Maximum intensity of cold wave is also in Baluchistan, Kashmir and northwest Rajasthan. In the plains, Gujarat also experiences comparatively intense cold waves. The cold waves are comparatively mild in east Uttar Pradesh. Probable duration of cold waves likely to be exceeded once in 5,10,25,50 and 100 years has also been calculated and duration distribution charts prepared.