GANGTOK — Sikkim's capital city witnessed a severe and sudden meteorological shift on Wednesday, as the maximum temperature in Gangtok nosedived by a staggering 11.4 degrees Celsius following continuous downpours triggered by the remnants of Cyclone Arnab.
The dramatic atmospheric cooling is a direct result of the tropical system, which has recently degraded into a low-pressure area while maintaining enough moisture to blanket the Himalayan state in thick cloud cover and persistent precipitation. Mountainous regions are exceptionally vulnerable to such rapid temperature compressions when cyclonic disturbances stall or pass nearby, often disrupting daily life, local agriculture, and regional transit networks.
According to reports and regional updates compiled by EastMojo, meteorological authorities have been closely monitoring the trajectory and dissipation of the low-pressure system to issue timely advisories for commuters and farmers alike. Officials noted that the unseasonable chill caught many locals off guard, prompting a sudden surge in the demand for warm winter apparel across the capital.
Looking ahead, forecasters predict that the lingering effects of the dissipated cyclone will continue to influence weather patterns throughout the northeastern sector for the next several days, with further spells of rain and low visibility likely in higher-altitude areas. Residents and travelers are advised to exercise caution on winding mountain roads where damp conditions could heighten the risk of localized landslides or slick pavement.