Beware! Cold Wave Alert with Rain and Snowfall Across India, From North to South

India is reeling under a severe cold wave, with rain and snowfall adding to the challenges across multiple states. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued alerts for heavy rains and snowfall in the coming days, affecting regions from Rajasthan to Karnataka. With dense fog, icy winds, and unexpected weather patterns, daily life has been significantly disrupted. Here’s a detailed overview of the situation across different regions.

North India: Intense Cold and Rain Linger

The chill of winter continues to grip North India, accompanied by dense fog and biting winds. Rainfall in various parts has further aggravated the conditions, with no immediate relief in sight. On Monday morning, Delhi-NCR woke up to thick fog that hampered visibility and disrupted daily activities.

Delhi’s Temperature Details:

• Maximum Temperature: 24°C
• Minimum Temperature: 11°C
• Sunday’s High: 26.1°C, 6.5°C above normal
• Sunday’s Low: 9.1°C, 1.6°C above average

The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) deteriorated to 362, placing it in the “very poor” category. With similar weather conditions expected throughout the week, residents are advised to exercise caution, especially during early morning and late-night travel.

Rajasthan: Light Rain Expected Amid Severe Cold

Rajasthan remains under the grip of harsh winter conditions. The IMD predicts light rainfall in parts of northwest and northeast Rajasthan on January 21-22, 2025, due to an active western disturbance. The state recorded its lowest temperature in Alwar at 7.2°C. Other regions reported:

• Ganganagar: 7.7°C
• Jaisalmer: 7.9°C
• Chittorgarh: 9.2°C
• Kota and Pilani: 9.5°C

Residents are urged to brace for colder nights and intermittent showers.

Uttar Pradesh and Bihar: Fog and Rain Add to Winter Woes

Northern states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar continue to endure harsh weather conditions. The IMD has predicted cloudy skies and light rain in some areas of Uttar Pradesh, accompanied by strong winds. Dense fog blanketed several regions this morning, impacting visibility and road safety.

In Bihar, light to moderate fog was observed in Patna and other areas. The Himalayan foothill regions reported dense fog, while the IMD forecast a 2-3°C increase in minimum temperatures over the next 48 hours, providing slight relief from cold nights.

Bihar’s Recent Temperature Data:

• Average Maximum Temperature: 23.8°C
• Average Minimum Temperature: 9.9°C

Punjab and Haryana: Persistent Cold with Dense Fog

Punjab and Haryana remain locked in a cold spell, with several regions reporting dense fog and low visibility. Amritsar recorded the lowest temperature at 4.8°C, followed by Bathinda at 6.6°C. Other significant readings included:

• Ludhiana: 8.4°C
• Patiala: 9.4°C
• Chandigarh: 8.9°C

In Haryana, Ambala recorded 10.4°C, while Faridabad stood at 10.2°C. Weather experts predict no significant changes in temperature this week, keeping the chill intact.

Himachal Pradesh: Snowfall and Rain on the Horizon

Himachal Pradesh saw some respite from extreme cold as minimum temperatures remained 3-6°C above normal in most parts. However, the IMD predicts rain and snowfall in the state’s higher reaches over the next few days:

• Monday-Tuesday: Light rain and snow in some regions.
• Wednesday-Thursday: Moderate snowfall across several areas.

Tourist spots like Shimla are expected to experience occasional cloudy skies and colder days, making it an ideal time for snow enthusiasts to visit.

Jammu and Kashmir: Three Days of Rain and Snow Forecasted

Jammu and Kashmir are bracing for three days of rain and snowfall starting Monday. The weather department predicts light snowfall in high-altitude regions and light to moderate rainfall in Jammu’s plains.

• January 20-21: Light snowfall at isolated locations.
• January 22: Moderate rainfall and snow expected in many areas, including the Pir Panjal range.

Gulmarg, the valley’s coldest region, recorded a minimum temperature of -7.8°C, slightly higher than its previous -8.2°C. Daytime temperatures at this popular ski resort remained 2.4°C above normal.

Bengaluru: Unseasonal Rain Wreaks Havoc

In South India, Bengaluru surprised its residents with unseasonal rain that disrupted normal life. The IMD has attributed this unexpected downpour to a cyclone near Sri Lanka’s eastern coast and the southwest Bay of Bengal.

• Rain was reported in areas like MG Road, Jayanagar, Hebbal, and RR Nagar.
• The Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Centre warned of scattered rain in coastal and hilly districts, with dry conditions persisting in the state’s northern interiors.

The IMD forecasts light rain in Bengaluru for the next 48 hours, urging residents to plan their commutes accordingly.

Precautions and Advisory

1. Travel Safety:
   • Avoid driving during dense fog or heavy rain.
   • Use fog lights and maintain safe speeds on highways.
2. Health Tips:
   • Stay warm, especially during mornings and evenings.
   • Consume immunity-boosting foods and stay hydrated.
3. Preparedness for Snowy Regions:
   • Carry snow gear if visiting Himachal Pradesh or Jammu and Kashmir.
   • Check road conditions and weather updates before planning trips.
4. Urban Residents:
   • For cities like Delhi and Bengaluru, monitor AQI levels and avoid outdoor activities during peak pollution hours.

The Bigger Picture: Climate Anomalies?

Unpredictable weather patterns, such as Bengaluru’s rain and prolonged winters in northern states, have raised concerns about climate change. Experts suggest that unusual cyclonic formations and shifting jet streams might be contributing to these anomalies.

With ongoing weather uncertainties, staying informed and prepared is crucial for all citizens. Follow official updates from the IMD and state authorities for real-time weather alerts.