Red Alert Issued Across Punjab and Haryana Amid Severe Cold Wave
Authorities have declared a red alert for Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh. The region faces severe cold wave conditions and dense to very dense fog. This weather pattern is causing significant disruptions to daily life and travel.
Current Weather Conditions and Temperature Readings
The weather remained dry over the past 24 hours. However, cold to severe cold wave conditions were reported at many locations in both states.
In Punjab, the average maximum temperature saw a slight increase of 0.8°C. Despite this rise, it still remains 6.3°C below normal levels. Sri Anandpur Sahib recorded the highest maximum temperature at 20.7°C. Ballowal Saunkhri experienced the lowest minimum temperature, dropping to 0°C.
In Haryana, the average maximum temperature increased by 0.5°C. It continues to stay 3.8°C below normal. Palwal registered the highest maximum temperature at 22.8°C. The lowest minimum temperature of 1.4°C was recorded at Canal Rest House Saragthal in Sonipat.
In Chandigarh, the maximum temperature reached 15.2°C, which is 3°C below normal. The minimum temperature fell to 2.8°C, approximately 4°C below normal.
Foggy Conditions and Visibility Issues
Very dense fog was reported in several key areas:
- Amritsar, Ludhiana, Patiala, Bathinda, Faridkot, Ballowal Saunkhri
- Chandigarh, Ambala, Hisar, Karnal, Bhiwani
Dense fog was also observed in Gurdaspur. These conditions have led to reduced visibility and traffic disruptions across the region.
Five-Day Weather Forecast for Punjab and Haryana
The weather forecast for Punjab from January 14 to 18 predicts mainly dry conditions. Dense to very dense fog is likely during night and morning hours at many places. Cold wave to severe cold wave conditions will continue in several districts.
Day temperatures are expected to stay below normal, ranging between 14°C and 20°C. Night temperatures may hover between 1°C and 7°C, with a risk of frost at isolated places.
Similar conditions are likely to prevail in neighboring Haryana. Dense fog is expected during late night and early morning hours, especially over north and central districts. Cold day conditions will persist at isolated places.
Maximum temperatures are forecasted between 14°C and 18°C. Minimum temperatures may range from 2°C to 8°C. A gradual rise in temperatures is anticipated after January 16.
Tricity Region Forecast
The Tricity region, comprising Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula, can expect partly cloudy skies with persistent dense fog. Maximum temperature is likely to be between 14°C to 18°C. Minimum temperature may range from 5°C to 10°C.
Public Advisory and Safety Measures
A public advisory has been issued urging residents to take precautions. Authorities advise avoiding non-essential travel during early morning hours. They recommend cautious driving due to low visibility conditions.
People should ensure adequate protection against extreme cold. This is particularly important for vulnerable groups such as children, elderly individuals, and outdoor workers.
