As temperatures across the country drop, Tamil Nadu’s picturesque hill district, Ooty, is experiencing an unusual and unseasonal cold spell. The plummeting temperatures have left residents grappling with the biting cold, impacting agriculture and causing health concerns. The lush green lawns of Ooty are covered with frost, and dense fog has significantly affected visibility. Locals are facing health issues due to the unexpected drop in temperature.
Official data reveals that the temperature in certain areas of Ooty has dipped significantly. Kanthal and Thalaikuntha in Udhagamandalam recorded a temperature of 1 degree Celsius, while the Botanical Garden registered 2 degrees Celsius. Sandynallah, a relatively warmer area, recorded 3 degrees Celsius. These temperatures are usually associated with the months of November and December.
Residents have been seen trying to keep warm by sitting around bonfires, highlighting the severity of the cold spell. The unseasonal cold has raised concerns among locals and environmental activists, who attribute it to global warming and the El-Nino effect. V Sivadas of the Nilagiri Environment Social Trust (NEST) expressed the need for a study to understand and address the climatic changes affecting the Nilgiris.
The impact of the unseasonal cold is also being felt in various sectors, particularly agriculture. Tea plantations, a significant economic activity in the region, are facing challenges due to the unexpected weather conditions. R Sukumaran, the secretary of a local tea workers union, expressed concerns about the potential decline in production in the coming months. The combination of heavy rains in December and the subsequent cold period has adversely affected tea plantations.
Vegetable farmers in the region have also reported challenges caused by the unseasonal cold. Cabbages, in particular, have been affected, impacting the livelihoods of farmers. The adverse weather conditions have disrupted normal agricultural cycles, leading to fears of decreased yields and financial losses for farmers.
Apart from the impact on agriculture, residents are facing health issues due to the unusual cold weather. Despite wearing warm attire, individuals are experiencing difficulties while riding two-wheelers. Health concerns include difficulty in breathing, severe headaches, and fever, indicating the adverse effects of the unexpected drop in temperature on the well-being of the community.
The unseasonal cold spell in Ooty serves as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by climate change and the need for sustainable practices. Local authorities, environmental organizations, and residents are urged to collaborate on understanding and mitigating the impact of changing weather patterns. The situation also emphasizes the importance of proactive measures to adapt to climate variations and protect the livelihoods of those dependent on agriculture in the region.
