IMD Warns of Severe Cold as Temperatures Near Zero in North India

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for severe cold conditions, with temperatures dropping close to zero degrees Celsius in several northern states. Dense fog and intense cold waves are expected to persist in the region over the coming days.

Temperatures Near Freezing Point in Key Areas

On Monday, minimum temperatures in Gurugram, Haryana, and Bathinda, Punjab, hovered around 0.6 degrees Celsius. In Rajasthan’s Fatehpur (Sikar), the mercury dipped below zero, reaching minus 0.4 degrees Celsius. Multiple locations in the National Capital Region (NCR), including Faridabad and Rewari, witnessed frost formation on ground surfaces due to temperatures nearing freezing point. Residents of Gurugram reported seeing frost on vehicle windows and hardened dry grass, particularly in rural and agricultural zones.

Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 3.2 degrees Celsius, which is 4.2 degrees lower than the seasonal average. This marked the coldest January day since 2023 and the second consecutive day of cold wave conditions. The city’s maximum temperature settled at 20.6 degrees Celsius on Monday. The IMD forecasts that fog and cold wave conditions will continue on Tuesday, with temperatures ranging between 4 and 20 degrees Celsius.

Cold Wave Impacts Rajasthan and Surrounding Regions

Rajasthan experienced severe cold waves, with night temperatures dropping below eight degrees Celsius across many districts. Apart from Fatehpur, areas such as Lunkaransar in Bikaner (0.4 degrees) and Churu (1.3 degrees) were among the coldest. Sri Ganganagar and Karauli also recorded temperatures near 1.5 degrees Celsius.

Safety Advisory Amidst Severe Cold

The IMD has cautioned residents, especially children and the elderly, to remain vigilant as severe cold and fog are expected to continue for at least another day. Traffic disruptions due to dense fog have been reported, and people have been seen warming themselves near fires. Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh (3.3 degrees) are also experiencing intense cold. Locals in Gurugram noted that such low temperatures have not been seen in many years.

Outlook and Agricultural Impact

According to Surendra Paul, Director of the Chandigarh Meteorological Department, the severe cold wave is expected to persist for the next three days before easing. Narnaul in Haryana recorded a minimum temperature of 1.2 degrees Celsius. While dew is beneficial for wheat crops, it may harm vegetables and mustard plants. Experts recommend light irrigation to protect crops from cold damage.

Chilly Conditions in Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh

Kashmir has seen some relief from the intense cold, although parts of Dal Lake remain frozen. Srinagar experienced temperatures 2.4 degrees below zero, while Pulwama recorded the valley’s lowest temperature at minus 6.5 degrees Celsius. Himachal Pradesh is preparing for snowfall starting from January 16, with a yellow alert issued for dense fog and cold wave in seven districts including Chamba. Lahaul-Spiti’s Kukumseri was the coldest location, with temperatures plunging to 9.6 degrees below zero.

Cold Weather Continues in Uttar Pradesh

The cold wave also affected several districts in Uttar Pradesh, including Lucknow, Prayagraj, and Meerut. Evening temperatures in Lucknow touched 13 degrees Celsius, with other major cities in the state experiencing temperatures between 13 and 19 degrees Celsius.