Residents of Chandigarh finally witnessed a welcome break from the persistent foggy conditions on Monday morning, as bright sunshine pierced through the haze. However, this relief is expected to be short-lived, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a fresh warning for the return of dense fog over the next two days.
Sunshine Offers Temporary Respite
After days of being enveloped in a thick blanket of fog, the city experienced significantly improved visibility on Monday. The sun emerged clearly, providing much-needed warmth and lifting the gloomy atmosphere that had dominated the region. The day's minimum temperature was recorded at 6.4 degrees Celsius, which is close to the season's average. The maximum temperature settled at a pleasant 21.2 degrees Celsius.
This break in the weather brought a sense of normalcy back to the city's daily rhythm. Commuters faced fewer disruptions, and outdoor activities resumed without the significant hindrances caused by poor visibility. The Meteorological Centre in Chandigarh confirmed that the fog had indeed lifted, allowing for clearer skies throughout the day.
Dense Fog Set for a Comeback
The IMD has forecast that the dense fog will make a strong return, affecting the city and its surrounding regions. A specific alert has been issued for Tuesday, January 16, and Wednesday, January 17. During this period, visibility is expected to drop drastically once again, potentially falling below 50 meters in many areas during the early morning and late-night hours.
This impending fog spell is likely to disrupt several aspects of daily life. The key impacts anticipated include:
- Major disruptions to road, rail, and air travel, leading to delays and cancellations.
- Significantly reduced visibility for drivers, increasing the risk of accidents on highways and city roads.
- Potential health concerns for citizens, especially those with respiratory issues, due to the accumulation of particulate matter in the foggy air.
Authorities are advising citizens to exercise extreme caution while traveling. Commuters are urged to check their flight and train schedules before leaving home and to use fog lights while driving. Pedestrians should wear visible clothing and avoid walking on roads with poor visibility.
Regional Weather Outlook and Precautions
The fog warning is not isolated to Chandigarh alone. The IMD's forecast indicates that several states across Northwest India, including Punjab, Haryana, and parts of Uttar Pradesh, will experience similar dense to very dense fog conditions over the coming days. This widespread weather phenomenon is typical for this time of the year, driven by light winds and high moisture levels in the lower atmosphere.
Meteorologists explain that these fog episodes are a result of the prevailing winter conditions. Clear skies and calm winds during the night lead to rapid cooling of the land surface. The moisture present in the air then condenses into tiny water droplets, forming fog. As the sun's intensity remains low in winter, it often takes several hours for this fog to dissipate.
Looking ahead, the IMD predicts that the minimum temperatures in Chandigarh and neighboring areas will continue to hover around the 6-7 degrees Celsius mark for the next few days. No significant change in the maximum temperature is expected either. Citizens are advised to stay updated with the latest weather bulletins from the IMD and local authorities.
The key takeaway for Chandigarh is to enjoy the current clear weather while preparing for the return of challenging foggy conditions mid-week. Proactive planning for travel and adherence to safety advisories will be crucial in navigating the upcoming spell of dense fog.
