A biting cold wave has descended upon the northern states of Haryana and Punjab, bringing a significant drop in temperatures and dense fog across the region. Residents are waking up to chilly mornings as the mercury takes a sharp plunge, with weather officials confirming the persistence of intense cold conditions at many places.
Key Cities Record Chilling Minimum Temperatures
According to the latest reports from the meteorological department, several key locations experienced severe cold on Tuesday. Ambala in Haryana recorded a minimum temperature of 6.2 degrees Celsius, which is notably below the normal range for this period. The cold was equally harsh in Punjab, where Amritsar shivered at 5.8 degrees Celsius. Other areas, including Hisar, Karnal, and Chandigarh, also reported temperatures significantly lower than seasonal averages, making early mornings particularly harsh for commuters and the general public.
Weather Forecast and Prevailing Conditions
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated that these cold wave conditions are likely to prevail for the next few days. The primary factors contributing to this weather pattern include clear skies and calm winds during the night, which facilitate rapid cooling. Furthermore, dense to very dense fog was reported in isolated pockets, reducing visibility and impacting road and rail travel. The IMD forecast suggests no immediate relief, with cold day conditions expected to continue.
Weather scientists attribute this intense cold spell to the flow of north-westerly winds from the snow-clad Himalayas. These dry, cold winds are sweeping across the plains, causing the temperature to drop. The absence of any western disturbance – weather systems that typically bring cloud cover and precipitation – is also allowing the cold to intensify unchecked.
Impact on Daily Life and Advisory
The sudden dip in temperature has a tangible impact on daily life. Health authorities have issued advisories, especially for the elderly, children, and those with respiratory ailments, to take necessary precautions. The cold wave poses risks of illnesses like hypothermia, frostbite, and exacerbates conditions like asthma.
Farmers in the region are also on alert, as extreme cold can damage certain Rabi crops like mustard and vegetables. While the current clear weather is good for wheat, a further dip could be harmful. Traffic movement has been affected during early morning and late night hours due to fog, leading to delays and necessitating caution on highways.
Residents are advised to layer up with warm clothing, stay indoors during the peak cold hours of early morning, and ensure proper heating where necessary. The weather department continues to monitor the situation closely and will update forecasts accordingly.
