Residents of Punjab and Haryana are bundling up as a persistent cold wave continues to sweep across the region. While the mercury has dipped significantly, bringing a sharp chill to the air, temperatures are currently reported to be slightly above the normal range for this time of year.
Current Weather Snapshot: A Chilly Reality
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed the prevalence of cold day to severe cold day conditions in isolated pockets of both states. On Monday, the maximum temperatures, which indicate the daytime high, settled between 17 and 20 degrees Celsius. This is notably lower than what is typically expected, creating a situation where the days feel unusually cold despite the readings being marginally above the long-term average.
Key cities felt the bite of the winter. In Punjab, Amritsar recorded a maximum of 19.4 degrees Celsius, while Ludhiana saw 19.8 degrees. Over in Haryana, Ambala registered 19.2 degrees Celsius, and Hisar was at 20.2 degrees. The minimum temperatures, or nighttime lows, have also been plunging, adding to the discomfort.
Travel Disruptions Due to Dense Fog
Beyond the cold, a major inconvenience for commuters has been the dense fog enveloping the plains. The IMD has issued warnings for dense to very dense fog in the morning hours across Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh. This weather phenomenon has severely reduced visibility, disrupting road, rail, and air travel schedules. Motorists are being advised to exercise extreme caution, use fog lights, and avoid high speeds.
The fog is a result of moisture availability and light wind conditions, which are typical during the winter months in northern India. It tends to be most intense during the late night and early morning, gradually thinning out as the sun gains strength.
What Lies Ahead: The Forecast
The meteorological department predicts that the cold wave conditions are likely to persist for the next few days. There is no immediate sign of significant relief or a western disturbance strong enough to cause a marked change. The forecast indicates:
- Continued cold day conditions in isolated areas.
- Dense morning fog, particularly in Punjab and Haryana.
- No significant change in minimum temperatures over the region.
Authorities are urging the public, especially vulnerable groups like the elderly and homeless, to take necessary precautions against the cold. The use of warm clothing, heaters, and proper shelter is strongly recommended to avoid cold-related illnesses.
While the temperatures are technically a notch above the seasonal normal, the persistent chill and foggy conditions have made this winter spell particularly harsh for the people of Punjab and Haryana, impacting daily life and routines.
