Delhi residents woke up to an unusually chilly Wednesday as the national capital recorded its coldest December day of the season so far. The maximum temperature struggled to reach a mere 20.1 degrees Celsius, a significant drop that has marked a sharp turn in the winter weather pattern.
Sharp Dip in Daytime Temperatures
According to data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the maximum temperature on Wednesday, December 18, settled at 20.1 degrees Celsius. This reading is a substantial five degrees below the season's normal average for this time of year. The minimum temperature was recorded at 7.2 degrees Celsius, which is also one degree below the normal minimum. The primary cause for this intense cold is a prevailing western disturbance affecting the northern plains of India.
IMD Issues Dense Fog and Cold Day Alert
The weather office has issued important alerts for the coming days. A "dense fog" alert is in place for Thursday, December 19, with visibility likely to drop significantly during the morning hours. Furthermore, the IMD has declared a "cold day" condition for the same day. A "cold day" is officially declared when the maximum temperature falls below 16 degrees Celsius in the plains. This indicates that the intense cold spell is set to continue, impacting daily life and travel.
Weather scientists attribute the current conditions to a combination of factors. The western disturbance has led to cloud cover, which prevents the sun from warming the surface during the day. Simultaneously, light northerly winds are bringing colder air from the Himalayan region into the plains. The IMD forecast suggests that similar conditions of cold days and dense fog are likely to persist over Northwest India for the next four to five days.
Impact and Precautions for Residents
The sudden and severe dip in daytime temperatures has several implications. The dense fog alert poses a serious risk for commuters, especially during early morning and late evening hours. Air and rail travel may also face disruptions due to reduced visibility. Health experts advise citizens, particularly the elderly and children, to take necessary precautions against the cold.
Recommended measures include:
- Wearing multiple layers of warm clothing when stepping out.
- Using appropriate gear like hats and gloves to minimize exposure.
- Drivers are urged to use fog lights and drive at reduced speeds.
- Staying updated with the latest weather bulletins from the IMD.
The recorded maximum of 20.1°C on December 18 stands as the lowest daytime temperature for the month this winter season, underscoring the early intensity of the cold wave in the national capital region. Citizens are bracing for more such days as the winter deepens.
