Cold Wave Grips Punjab as Temperatures Dip Sharply
The Punjab cold wave tightened its grip on the region on Tuesday as several districts recorded sharp drops in minimum temperatures. Moreover, both Punjab and Haryana experienced severe winter conditions that disrupted daily routines across towns and rural areas.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Rupnagar was the coldest location in the two states. It recorded a minimum temperature of 3.6°C, which is well below normal for this time of the season. The chill created dense fog in many pockets and slowed morning movement on major roads.
Amritsar also reported intense cold. Its minimum temperature dropped to 6.1°C. Moreover, Ludhiana recorded 9.2°C, while Patiala logged 10.1°C. These readings show a steady fall in temperature across central Punjab. Weather officials said northwesterly winds helped push the cold deeper into the plains.
Chandigarh, the joint capital of Punjab and Haryana, also felt the strong bite of winter. The city recorded 8.6°C as its minimum temperature. Although the drop was moderate compared to Rupnagar or Amritsar, the city still saw fog in early hours.
IMD Predicts Continued Chill as Dense Fog Likely to Persist
IMD officials noted that the cold wave will likely continue for the next few days. Additionally, the department expects dense fog in morning hours. This may reduce visibility on highways and disrupt traffic.
A senior IMD scientist said the temperature pattern shows strong westerly disturbances. These systems often bring dry, cold winds to Punjab. Moreover, the scientist said night temperatures may drop even further if the sky remains clear.
Weather experts also warned that health risks increase during intense cold spells. They advised elderly people to avoid early morning exposure. Schools may also review morning schedules if the cold persists.
Transport authorities asked drivers to use fog lights and maintain slow speeds. Chandigarh and Ludhiana saw fog-related delays on several key routes. Moreover, bus services from Amritsar to Delhi started late due to poor visibility.
Residents Struggle With Severe Chill as Demand for Heating Rises
The harsh winter conditions have forced residents to use more heating equipment and warm clothing. Many shopkeepers in Ludhiana and Patiala said demand for woollens has risen sharply. Moreover, roadside tea stalls reported a rise in customers seeking relief from the cold.
Farmers in the Malwa and Doaba regions expressed concern over the sharp temperature drop. However, agricultural experts said the cold may help certain crops, including wheat, if frost remains minimal. Still, early morning fog may delay harvesting in some areas.
In Chandigarh, morning walkers avoided parks as cold winds swept across the city. Schoolchildren also struggled with chilly mornings. Many parents requested schools to adjust start timings. However, no formal change has been announced so far.
The Punjab government said it is monitoring the weather closely. Additionally, officials said relief instructions will be issued if the cold wave intensifies.