Frequent western disturbances across the northern parts of the country, coupled with changing wind patterns, have ensured that Jharkhand did not have to endure a cold wave this winter.

“Frequent western disturbances in December and in January has, so far, resulted in adverse conditions for a cold wave (when at least three Met observatories record minimum readings five notches below normal). Usually, western disturbances result in a rise in night temperatures. It blocks the flow of crisp north-westerly winds from north India to the plains,” said Abhishek Anand, deputy director of Ranchi Meteorological Centre, on Wednesday.

The cold wave usually sends shivers down Jharkhand’s spine from December last week to mid-January.

Met statistics revealed that the cold wave conditions will probably not continue this winter. According to the statistics, 2018 witnessed the longest spell of the cold wave for nine days at a stretch in December.

Met records suggest that in 2017, cold wave conditions eluded the state in December. According to Met data, in 2016, cold wave conditions prevailed at several places in Jharkhand including Ranchi, Daltonganj and a few other districts from December 22 to 25. Similarly, in 2015, cold wave conditions prevailed in Ranchi and its adjoining districts only on December 21.

Met department said a fresh western disturbance is likely to increase the wind speed in the northern parts of the country on Thursday, which will again stop the flow of northwesterly winds.

The long-range forecast suggests that Jharkhand will witness the minimum temperature from January 12. On Wednesday, both Jamshedpur and Ranchi have recorded 13 degrees Celsius, while Daltonganj recorded 15 degrees Celsius at night.