The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a severe cold wave alert for several states in North India as temperatures plunge, with dense fog adding to the winter woes. Here's a detailed look at the current weather conditions across affected regions:

States Under Cold Wave Alert

Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Rajasthan, Punjab, Telangana, Odisha, and Delhi are experiencing a severe drop in temperatures due to the impact of snowfall in the northern mountains.

Temperature Updates

  1. Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir:

    • Lahaul Spiti recorded a bone-chilling -10.6°C, the lowest in Himachal Pradesh.
    • Srinagar saw temperatures fall to -3.4°C.
    • The regions are bracing for further drops, especially around December 21 and 22.
  2. Delhi:

    • The national capital is grappling with both extreme cold and worsening air pollution.
    • Minimum temperature: 4.1°C (recorded Monday night).
    • Air Quality: Reached the "very poor" category, prompting the implementation of GRAP 4 measures.
  3. Rajasthan:

    • Fatehpur recorded the lowest temperature in the state at 0.4°C.
    • Other notable temperatures:
      • Churu: 1.5°C
      • Alwar: 2.2°C
      • Sikar: 2.5°C
      • Pilani and Sangaria: 2.7°C
  4. Punjab and Haryana:

    • Faridkot and Hisar saw temperatures drop to 0.6°C.
    • Chandigarh's maximum temperature stood at 26°C, slightly above normal, but the cold wave persists in Ludhiana and Patiala (3.6°C).
  5. Odisha:

    • 15 districts reported temperatures below 10°C, with Mayurbhanj district hitting 1°C, the state’s lowest.
  6. Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh:

    • Eastern Uttar Pradesh is on alert for dense fog and frost in many areas.
    • Cold wave conditions will persist across both states.

What to Expect Next?

  • Hilly Areas: Dry weather with light snowfall in higher altitudes.
  • Cold Wave Duration: Expected to continue for the next three days, offering little relief from the biting cold.
  • Dense Fog: Predicted to dominate eastern Uttar Pradesh and other northern plains, reducing visibility.

Safety Tips During the Cold Wave

  • Stay indoors as much as possible, especially during early mornings and late nights.
  • Wear warm layers and protect extremities from the cold.
  • Use heaters responsibly and ensure proper ventilation.
  • Follow local weather advisories and avoid unnecessary travel in areas affected by fog.

Stay informed and stay safe as winter intensifies across the region!