Severe Cold Wave Grips Northern India with Record Low Temperatures
Cold Wave Continues to Affect Northern India
The northern regions of India are currently experiencing a severe cold wave, with particularly harsh conditions in Delhi and neighboring states. On Tuesday, the capital recorded its coldest morning of the season, with temperatures plummeting to 3 degrees Celsius. Many areas across northern India are nearing freezing temperatures, prompting weather agencies to issue a high-level alert for Punjab and Haryana.
Weather Conditions in Delhi
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported a minimum temperature of 3°C in Delhi, which is 4.4 degrees below the normal range. Morning humidity levels soared to 100%. Fortunately, daytime temperatures offered some relief, reaching a maximum of 20.6°C, slightly above average. However, dense fog reduced visibility in several areas, disrupting morning commutes in the Delhi-NCR region.
Intensifying Cold Wave in the North
The meteorological center in Chandigarh issued a red alert for Punjab and Haryana, warning of severe cold conditions accompanied by dense fog. For the first time this season, temperatures in the region have dropped to freezing levels, with Bhatinda recording 0.6°C and Amritsar and Faridkot seeing temperatures fall to 1°C.
Extreme Cold in Haryana
Similar extreme weather conditions were observed in Haryana, where temperatures in Gurugram reached 0°C. Other areas like Sirsa, Sonipat, Bhiwani, and Mahendragarh recorded minimum temperatures around 1°C. Despite the red alert, the IMD indicated that a yellow alert would remain in effect until January 17, signaling a prolonged period of intense cold.
Impact of Cold on Daily Life
In the outskirts of Gurugram, reports of heavy frost and ice accumulation emerged for the second consecutive morning, with temperatures dropping below -0.9°C in some suburbs. Frost was also observed in various parts of the Delhi-NCR region, marking a rare occurrence that underscores the severity of the cold wave.
Cold Weather Extends to Rajasthan
The cold has spread further into Rajasthan, particularly in Fatehpur Shekhawati, where temperatures dipped to -1.9°C. The frost has covered fields, trees, water pipes, and agricultural equipment. Poor visibility due to fog and icy winds has severely impacted daily life, leading to a decrease in passenger numbers on roadways and railways. Farmers are expressing concerns over potential damage to mustard and vegetable crops, including chili, tomato, and tinda, due to frost. According to the IMD's daily weather bulletin, the ongoing cold is attributed to a western disturbance and cyclonic circulation in the upper atmosphere over northern Haryana.
Forecast for the Coming Days
The minimum temperatures are expected to remain significantly below normal for the next two days, followed by a gradual increase of 2-4°C. Cold wave conditions are likely to persist in some areas on January 13 and 14, with fog expected in the mornings. Residents across northern India are bracing for another round of icy mornings, with limited sunshine during the day providing only slight relief, as temperatures are expected to drop again after sunset.
Key Points and Warnings
Red Alert: The IMD has issued the highest level of alert for Punjab and Haryana, where temperatures may drop to 0°C or below.
Fog Impact: Dense fog has persisted due to 100% humidity and low temperatures, reducing visibility to less than 50 meters, causing delays in flights and trains.
Health Risks: Prolonged exposure to temperatures around 3°C increases the risk of hypothermia and respiratory illnesses.
Reasons Behind the Severe Cold
The extreme cold in northern India is primarily due to the active western disturbance and icy northwestern winds from the mountains. Clear skies at night lead to rapid radiational cooling of the ground, causing temperatures to drop significantly.
Precaution: Authorities have advised the elderly and children to avoid going outside during early mornings and late nights.