Contrary to public concerns about an extremely harsh winter, the National Centre for Hydrology and Meteorology (NCHM) says Bhutan is likely to experience a slightly warmer or milder winter this year compared to previous years. According to the centre’s Winter Monsoon Outlook, there will be warmer days and no extreme drop in nighttime temperature. However, that does not mean complete absence of cold weather.
According to the NCHM, last week’s temperature across the country ranged from 6 to 26 degree Celsius.
The highest temperature was observed in Samtse and Sarpang with 26 degrees Celsius.
The lowest was recorded in Gasa with 6 degrees Celsius.
According to the NCHM, the temperature in the upcoming week is expected to slightly decrease compared to the previous week.
The outlook highlights that major global climate agencies, including the World Meteorological Organization, the International Research Institute for Climate and Society, and the Copernicus Climate Change Service, indicate that winter days in Bhutan will be warmer than usual.
This outlook is influenced by weak La Niña conditions in the Pacific Ocean. La Niña is a natural climate pattern that can increase the chances of colder days and frost in some areas. However, if it is weak, there will be warm winter.
However, the NCHM cautioned that a milder winter or slightly warmer winter does not mean the absence of cold weather.
Experts say Bhutan’s mountainous landscape can still lead to sudden cold spells, particularly in valleys where temperatures can drop sharply overnight.