A severe cold wave and dense fog are set to continue across large parts of northern and central India for the next 48 hours, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue alerts for significant transport disruptions. The forecast warns of a further drop in night temperatures, which could affect flight, train, and road traffic during the early morning and night hours.
According to the latest IMD bulletin, minimum temperatures are expected to fall by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius across northwest and central India. In some isolated areas, temperatures may dip 2 to 4 degrees below normal, creating ‘cold day’ conditions.
Transport and Visibility Concerns
Dense fog remains the primary concern, with visibility expected to be significantly reduced. The IMD has predicted dense fog over Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal. The Delhi National Capital Region is also likely to experience shallow to moderate fog, which could impact morning commuter traffic.
Authorities have been advised to monitor the situation closely, as these conditions are likely to disrupt flight schedules, delay trains, and slow down road traffic. Travellers have been urged to check their schedules before heading out, especially for early morning journeys.
State-Wise Alerts Issued
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for cold wave conditions in Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan. Additionally, specific fog alerts are in effect for Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and the northern parts of Madhya Pradesh. The department clarified that no heatwave conditions have been reported anywhere in the country.
While most of the plains will remain dry, the western Himalayan region may experience isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next 24 hours.
Advisory for Public
The IMD has cautioned about potential cold stress, particularly for individuals exposed to the low temperatures for extended periods. The public is advised to wear adequate protective clothing and take necessary precautions against the cold.
In areas affected by fog, people are urged to follow traffic advisories and drive cautiously. The weather department is continuously monitoring the conditions and will provide further updates.
Disclaimer: This report is based on the latest bulletin issued by the India Meteorological Department. Weather conditions may change with subsequent updates.
