Chandigarh, December 18: Punjab Weather Update : A thick layer of fog enveloped several cities in Punjab on Wednesday morning, causing a sharp drop in visibility across the state. According to local reports, the dense fog disrupted daily routines, slowed traffic movement, and increased the risk of road accidents, especially on highways and major arterial roads.
Amritsar remained heavily covered by dense fog during the early morning hours. Residents said visibility dropped to a few metres in some pockets, making driving extremely risky. Many commuters reported near standstill traffic on city roads and highways leading out of Amritsar. Locals urged motorists to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel during early hours.
Low Visibility Disrupts Travel in Amritsar and Moga
In Moga, a thick blanket of fog greeted residents at dawn, creating challenging conditions for commuters. Drivers struggled to navigate roads due to poor visibility, while pedestrians found it difficult to cross busy intersections. School buses and public transport services also operated at slower speeds to prevent mishaps.
Residents in Moga said morning routines were severely affected as travel time doubled in several areas. Moreover, foggy conditions forced many office-goers to delay departures. Similar scenes were reported from nearby towns, where fog reduced visibility and increased accident risks.
Traffic police advised motorists to use fog lights, maintain safe distances, and avoid overspeeding. Officials said fog-related accidents typically rise during winter mornings, especially when visibility drops suddenly.
Several Punjab Cities Wake Up to Foggy Conditions
Apart from Amritsar and Moga, several other cities in Punjab experienced foggy weather during the early morning hours. Although fog intensity varied, visibility remained low in many districts, impacting normal movement. Meteorological officials said such conditions are common during winter due to falling temperatures and calm winds.
At around 8 am, air quality levels in several cities remained in the moderate category. Experts said fog often traps pollutants near the ground, leading to deteriorating air quality. However, they noted that conditions may improve later in the day as sunlight increases.
Residents reported mild irritation in eyes and throat, particularly among elderly people and children. Doctors advised vulnerable groups to avoid prolonged outdoor exposure during foggy mornings.
Fog Signals Seasonal Air Quality Concerns
Weather experts said the fog indicates seasonal changes linked to winter weather patterns. Calm wind conditions and low temperatures contribute to moisture accumulation near the surface. As a result, fog formation becomes more frequent during December and January.
Moreover, fog can worsen air quality by preventing the dispersion of pollutants. This often leads to hazy conditions during mornings, especially in urban and semi-urban areas. Experts urged authorities to monitor pollution levels closely during prolonged fog spells.
The Punjab weather update suggests that foggy mornings may continue over the next few days. Meteorologists advised commuters to plan travel accordingly and remain alert to sudden visibility changes.
Authorities Issue Safety Advisory for Commuters
State authorities and traffic officials issued advisories urging caution during foggy conditions. They recommended using headlights appropriately, avoiding sudden lane changes, and maintaining lower speeds. Officials also urged drivers to keep emergency lights functional.
Public transport operators were asked to ensure driver alertness during early morning services. Schools and offices were advised to remain flexible with timings if fog conditions worsen.
Emergency services remain on alert to respond quickly to fog-related incidents. Officials said coordinated efforts are necessary to minimise accidents during winter fog spells.
What to Expect Next
Weather officials said fog intensity may reduce by late morning as temperatures rise. However, early morning fog may persist in several districts over the coming days. Commuters were advised to follow official weather bulletins and traffic updates.
Experts said winter fog is likely to remain a regular feature until wind patterns change. They also urged citizens to remain patient and cautious during travel.
As Punjab enters peak winter, fog-related disruptions may increase. Authorities said preparedness and awareness remain key to ensuring safety during adverse weather.