SHILLONG, Dec 12: Frost has arrived in the outskirts of Shillong, marking an early onset of the severe winter season as mercury dips across the region. Lyngkien village, located behind the Sacred Grove of Mawphlang, has reported heavy frost, with meadows and open spaces blanketed white in the early mornings. Locals say the frost started in early December, signaling a strong winter arrival in Meghalaya.
While the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has not yet officially confirmed reports of frost in the region, Shillong city itself has been recording minimum temperatures between 7°C and 8°C for several weeks. The city has yet to experience frost this year, though the winter season typically runs from December to February.
Historically, temperatures in December have often dropped below 0°C. The all-time lowest minimum temperature in Shillong remains -3.3°C, recorded on December 30, 1983.
Separately, under Mission Mausam, the IMD announced plans to enhance weather monitoring across the state. A Doppler Weather Radar will soon be installed in Shillong to provide detailed, real-time data crucial for accurate forecasting and severe weather warnings.
Furthermore, IMD plans to open a new meteorological office in Tura and establish a world-class observatory and exhibition Centre in Mawsynram. The department is also collaborating with the state government to establish manual observatories in all districts and blocks.
