Cold Wave to Grip Delhi: IMD Predicts Temperature Dip and Dense Fog Across Northwest India
Delhi is bracing for a sharp drop in temperatures as a cold wave sweeps through the capital and other parts of northwest India. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a weather warning on Sunday, forecasting a significant dip in mercury and the onset of dense fog starting today. The cold wave is expected to bring about a dramatic shift in weather conditions across the region, with the potential to disrupt daily life and impact visibility on roads and highways.
With winter already making its presence felt, the IMD’s latest advisory has heightened concerns, urging residents to take precautions as temperatures are set to plummet. In addition to the chilly conditions, dense fog is expected to linger in the region, causing significant disruptions, particularly in the morning hours.
IMD Forecasts Severe Cold Wave for Delhi and Northwest India
The IMD’s weather update suggests that Delhi, along with neighboring regions like Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, will experience a severe cold wave due to the prevailing atmospheric conditions. The temperature is expected to dip well below the average for this time of year, with a sharp chill settling over the national capital.
Meteorologists have warned that the minimum temperature in Delhi could drop to around 4°C to 6°C over the next few days. Coupled with this, the region will experience northwesterly winds, which will exacerbate the cold conditions. For residents of Delhi, the chilling weather could pose challenges, particularly for the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
Additionally, dense fog is expected to cover parts of Delhi and surrounding areas, leading to reduced visibility and affecting transportation. Morning commuters, including those relying on roadways and railways, should be prepared for delays and slower travel times due to poor visibility.
Dense Fog to Impact Visibility Across Northwest India
Apart from the cold wave, dense fog is predicted to blanket large parts of northwest India. The IMD’s advisory highlights the potential for visibility to drop below 50 meters in some areas, particularly in the early morning hours. This phenomenon could lead to significant disruptions in travel, especially on roads and railways.
The dense fog will create hazardous conditions for drivers and travelers. Authorities have advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel during foggy conditions, and road users are urged to exercise caution. Those driving should use fog lights and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to avoid accidents.
In addition to the fog, the cold wave is expected to cause discomfort for people in outdoor settings. Cold-related illnesses such as frostbite and hypothermia are risks during extreme temperatures, so citizens have been advised to bundle up in warm clothing and limit exposure to the cold, especially in the early hours of the day.
Temperature Drop in Delhi: What to Expect in the Coming Days
Delhi, known for its chilly winter months, is gearing up for one of the coldest phases this year. The IMD has forecast that the national capital will experience daytime temperatures hovering around 15°C to 18°C, with nighttime temperatures plunging further. The region’s residents should prepare for an extended cold wave, lasting at least a week, as per the latest IMD predictions.
The impact of the cold wave will be felt particularly in the evenings and early mornings when the temperature is expected to dip the most. The combination of low temperatures and dense fog will make it challenging for people to move around freely, especially in the early hours.
For many, the frigid temperatures are a reminder of the harsh winter months Delhi faces each year. However, the severity of this cold wave, as predicted by the IMD, could make this winter notably more intense.
Safety Precautions to Take During the Cold Wave
Given the severity of the cold wave and dense fog forecasted across Delhi and northwest India, it is essential for residents to take necessary precautions to stay safe:
- Wear Warm Clothing: Ensure that you and your family are dressed in multiple layers of warm clothing, including woolen caps, scarves, gloves, and thermal wear.
- Avoid Outdoor Exposure: Limit outdoor activities, especially during early morning and evening hours when temperatures are at their lowest.
- Use Proper Lighting: Drivers should ensure that their vehicles are equipped with fog lights and use them when traveling in foggy conditions.
- Be Cautious on Roads: If traveling by road, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to prevent accidents due to low visibility.
- Health Precautions: Keep an eye on the health of vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and people with respiratory conditions. Cold weather can trigger health issues like asthma and pneumonia.
- Stay Informed: Regularly check weather updates from the IMD and local authorities to stay informed about any changes in weather conditions.