Cold Wave Sweeps Northern India: IMD Issues Severe 'Cold Day' Warning As Dense Fog Blankets Region

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a severe cold day warning, anticipating temperatures to plunge below 10 degrees Celsius in several northern states. The alert, issued on Friday, emphasizes the likelihood of dense to very dense fog persisting during nights and mornings across the northwest region for the next two days.

In a recent bulletin, IMD stated, "Severe to Very Severe Cold day (minimum temperature ≤10°C) very likely in a few pockets of Haryana-Chandigarh-Delhi on 5th & 6th January 2024." Additionally, the weather department provided details of the expected minimum temperatures across different parts of the country on January 6, revealing a chilly scenario.

The IMD reported, "Minimum Temperatures (on 06.01.2024) are in the range of 6-9 ℃ over Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana-Chandigarh-Delhi." The forecast extends to 10-12℃ over parts of West Uttar Pradesh and northwest Madhya Pradesh, with 13-15 ℃ expected over remaining parts of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and West Bengal.

Adding to the meteorological developments, the IMD hinted at the possibility of isolated light rainfall in northwest and central India between January 8 to 10, as reported by Hindustan Times.

The national capital, Delhi, is experiencing a significant cold wave, with the minimum temperature recorded at 9.6 degrees Celsius at Palam's monitoring station and 8.9 degrees Celsius at Safdarjung station on Saturday, January 6. The city has also been shrouded in dense fog over the past few days, contributing to disruptions in both rail and air travel.

Simultaneously, Delhi's overall air quality index (AQI) has been alarming, reaching 315 and falling into the 'very poor' category. Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data recorded at 10 am indicates various areas across the city registering under the 'very poor' category. Anand Vihar leads with an AQI of 374, followed by Ashok Vihar at 323, Dwarka at 323, Jahangirpuri at 352, Mandir Marg at 333, Mundka at 308, Narela at 307, New Moti Bagh at 333, Patparganj at 346, Punjabi Bagh at 346, R K Puram at 351, Rohini at 323, and Wazirpur at 351.

The foggy conditions in the city have resulted in disruptions to both train and flight operations. According to an ANI report, several flights from the Indira Gandhi International Airport experienced delays on Saturday, January 6, further highlighting the challenging weather conditions faced by residents and travellers alike.

As the cold wave tightens its grip, authorities are urging residents to take necessary precautions, such as dressing warmly and staying indoors during severe cold spells.