A severe cold wave continues to sweep across North India, claiming lives and disrupting daily life. In the past 24 hours, eight people have succumbed to the extreme cold in Uttar Pradesh, while Bihar has reported two fatalities. The intense cold conditions have been further aggravated by heavy snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh, casting a chilling spell over the entire northern region of the country.
Widespread Impact of Dense Fog Across 14 States
The severe weather conditions have led to dense fog enveloping 14 states for the second consecutive day. The visibility in Delhi dropped to zero for nine hours on Saturday, significantly affecting air and road traffic. The dense fog has resulted in massive disruptions to flight schedules, with over 800 flights delayed on January 3rd and 4th alone. On Sunday morning, another 114 flights faced delays, pushing the total number of affected flights to over 900 in just three days.
Cold Day Conditions and Regional Weather Alerts
Several states, including Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, remain under cold day conditions, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing alerts for heavy snowfall and severe weather. In particular, Kashmir and the Chenab Valley are expected to experience intense snowfall, while Himachal Pradesh braces for similar conditions across seven districts. These adverse weather patterns are likely to persist, causing further disruptions.
Snowfall and Rain Predictions for Upcoming Days
Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh
The regions of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh are forecasted to continue receiving heavy snowfall. This could exacerbate the already harsh conditions, impacting both local residents and tourists. The snowfall has also led to road closures and delays in essential services.
Rainfall in Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu
Rajasthan may witness rainfall in certain districts on Sunday, providing temporary relief from the biting cold. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry are expected to experience rainfall by January 8th, which could offer a respite from the otherwise dry and cold conditions prevalent in the region.
Temperature Drops and Weather Alerts in Central India
Madhya Pradesh
In Madhya Pradesh, a significant drop in temperature is anticipated over the next two days. The IMD predicts that several districts will see temperatures falling by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius, potentially leading to increased cold stress among the population.
Alert for Electrical Storms and Strong Winds
In addition to the cold, an alert has been issued for lightning strikes and strong winds across Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi. Residents in these areas are advised to exercise caution and stay indoors where possible to avoid exposure to dangerous weather elements.
Northern Plains Shrouded in Persistent Fog
The Northern Plains, including states like Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab, remain covered under a thick layer of fog. This has severely hampered visibility, affecting both daily commuters and emergency services. The persistent fog is likely to continue, with little respite expected in the coming days.
Precautions and Safety Measures Amidst Harsh Weather
Given the current harsh weather conditions, authorities are urging residents to take precautionary measures. This includes:
- Wearing multiple layers of warm clothing to combat the cold.
- Ensuring adequate heating arrangements at home.
- Avoiding unnecessary travel, particularly during periods of low visibility.
- Staying updated with local weather forecasts and adhering to advisories issued by the IMD and local authorities.
