As winter intensifies across the Indian subcontinent, the northern regions are experiencing an unrelenting cold wave, with chilling conditions making daily life increasingly challenging. From dense fog enveloping the plains to heavy snowfall blanketing the mountains, the extreme weather is disrupting lives, travel, and visibility. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued alerts for rain and hailstorms in multiple states, further complicating the situation.
Kashmir Freezes: Night Temperatures Plummet
The Kashmir Valley is enduring a severe cold wave, with temperatures plunging well below freezing. Srinagar recorded its coldest night of the season, with the mercury dipping to a bone-chilling -7.3°C. In Leh, the temperature hit an extreme low of -12.6°C, making it one of the coldest regions in the country. Frozen water bodies, including the iconic Dal Lake, reflect the freezing grip of winter.
Snowfall in the higher reaches has compounded the cold, intensifying the freezing conditions across the valley. With the IMD forecasting further snowfall on December 27 and 28, residents and authorities are bracing for worsening conditions.
Fog and Low Visibility Hamper Life in Northern Plains
The dense fog sweeping across Punjab, Delhi, Haryana, and Rajasthan has brought life to a near standstill. On December 27, the visibility in Delhi dropped to 100 meters, causing major disruptions in road, rail, and air traffic. Over 20 trains, including premium services like the Mumbai Central Rajdhani, arrived late in the capital due to fog-induced delays.
In addition to travel disruptions, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi remained in the “very poor” category at 333, exacerbating respiratory problems. The IMD predicts the fog will persist over the next few days, with parts of Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Rajasthan also affected.
Snowfall Blocks Roads in Himachal Pradesh
In Himachal Pradesh, heavy snowfall since December 26 has rendered life difficult, with 226 roads, including three national highways, closed. Tourist hotspots like Jot, Khadrala, Puh, and Sangla have been covered in a thick blanket of snow, measuring up to 10 cm in some areas.
The remote district of Lahaul-Spiti recorded the state’s lowest temperature at -10.6°C, making it the coldest spot in Himachal Pradesh. While the snow enhances the region’s scenic beauty, it has also posed challenges for residents and travelers. State authorities are on high alert to tackle any emergencies stemming from adverse weather conditions.
Rain and Hailstorms Expected in Central and Western India
The IMD has forecast light to moderate rain and hailstorms for Madhya Pradesh, Western Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Central India on December 27, due to an active western disturbance. In Rajasthan, cities like Jaipur, Ajmer, and Udaipur are expected to witness rainfall starting December 26, with overcast skies and dipping temperatures.
Pilani and Ganganagar recorded Rajasthan’s lowest minimum temperature at 6.6°C, with a new spell of rain predicted to bring more cold conditions. The IMD has advised farmers and residents to prepare for hailstorms that could affect crops and property in the affected regions.
Disrupted Life in Delhi-NCR
In Delhi-NCR, temperatures dropped further due to rain from the western disturbance. The IMD predicts a further dip of around 2°C in minimum temperatures over the next two to three days. Residents of the capital woke up to overcast skies and dense fog, further slowing down daily activities.
The combination of low visibility and chilling winds has heightened the challenges for commuters. Meanwhile, intermittent rainfall has added to the woes, making the region colder and more uncomfortable for its inhabitants.
Severe Cold Snap in Jammu and Kashmir
The relentless cold wave in Jammu and Kashmir has driven night temperatures several degrees below normal, increasing frost formation. Water pipes have frozen, and the icy roads pose hazards for travelers. The hilly district of Bhaderwah saw heavy snowfall on December 26, cutting off connectivity to nearby regions.
The IMD has warned of further deterioration in weather conditions, with snowfall predicted to intensify over the next 48 hours. Schools, businesses, and public services are on high alert to address disruptions caused by the extreme cold.
